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The Capuchin Friars began as a reform of the Franciscan Observants in 1525. Friar Mathew de Bascio and several others, disillusioned with perceived relaxations of the Rule, desired to adhere to the strict, literal observance as lived by St. Francis and his earliest companions. In particular, they sought a more contemplative life coupled with rigorous austerity, strict poverty and a literal following of the Rule and Testament of Francis. Though originally persecuted for their split with the Observants, the Capuchins were immensely popular among the common people and were officially recognized as an independent Order on July 3, 1528. In the papal bull, Religionis Zellus, Pope Clement VII constituted the friars as a separate family and distinct members of the sons of St. Francis. Learn much more about the Capuchin Friars by following the various links at right.
