St. Francis's Rule

The second chapter of the Rule, “Concerning those who wish to adopt this life” provides instructions for those who wish to become part of the Order. Anyone wishing to enter the Order had to report to the provincial ministers to begin the process as it is done nowadays. This will of submission to the Church is very demanding; the provincial ministers were to examine diligently on “the Catholic faith and sacraments of the church.” One amazing aspect of the Franciscans was that they were able to combine a personal freedom with true obedience to the Church and to their Order. St. Francis always proved his loyalty to the Church. He demonstrated it throughout his entire life and in his writings, especially the Rule. In the Rule, he solemn and