FRANCISCANS:
the MONASTIC Order founded by FRANCIS OF ASSISI in 1209 based on the Rule
of POVERTY, PREACHING and PENANCE. Two modified versions of the original Rule, which
relaxed its stricter obligations, followed and opened the Order to a wider selection of
candidates but Francis always preferred his original, stricter Rule. For four centuries
after his death conflict divided the Order over which Rule ought to be followed. The Order
is noted for its charity works, hospitals, schools and MISSIONARY endeavors. Five members
of the Order have become Popes and it has produced such outstanding philosophers as
BONAVENTURE, DUNS SCOTUS and WILLIAM OF OCKHAM.
