Franciscans

fran-sis'kanz, a general name given to three religious orders founded in the thirteenth century by St. Francis. The first order is that of Franciscan friars; the second order is that of Franciscan nuns; the third order includes both men and women. The last order, now little known, consisted of people unable to break existing domestic ties or to withdraw themselves from the ordinary pursuits of life. They were bound by oath to dress plainly, to eat simple food, to fast, to pray, and to lead lives that would be an example to the community in which they lived. The order of Franciscan friars was approved by Pope Innocent III in 1210. It grew rapidly. In ten years there were 5,000 members. In 1260 there were 1,400 Franciscan houses in France, where the members were known as Cordeliers. In England and Scotland they were known from their garb as Grey Friars. In 1680, according to the historian of the order, there were 100,000 Franciscans in Europe. Many of their houses were known as centers of learning. More than one Franciscan friar filled a university chair. The noted Roger Bacon was a member of the order. There are a number of Franciscan houses in the United States. The total number of members of the order in all countries is now estimated at about 17,000. See Monasticism