Francisʹcans
,or Minʹorites (3 syl.). Founded in 1208 by St. Francis of Assisi, who called poverty “his bride.” Poverty was the ruling principle of the order. Duns Scotus, Roger Bacon, Cardinal Ximenës, Ganganelli, etc., were of this order.
Called Franciscans, from the name of their founder.
” Minorites, from their professed humility.
” Grey Friars, from the colour of their outer garment.
” Mendicants, because they were one of the Begging or mendicant order.
” Observants, because they strictly observed the rule of poverty.
⁂ The Franciscan Sisters were known as Clares, or Poor Clares, Minoresses, Mendicants, and Urbanites.
