The Capuchin Reform

Why this translation? For Capuchin Friars, texts such as these are a window into Capuchin spirit and life in the beginning when our Capuchin identity began to take shape. By making such texts available in English, I hope that we may shorten the distance of time between us today and our brothers yesterday. Access to original texts may allow us to listen to them as they vividly describe and interpret their experiences. The text is a place of encounter, and through such meetings, the shadowy image of these brothers takes on greater definition. And more wonderfully, their history becomes ours. Of course, such texts will be valuable for anyone interested in the Franciscan movement or charism and its remarkably diverse forms of expression down the centuries. CONTENTS Introduction Foreword to the first edition Foreword to the second edition Translator's Foreword Sources and Abbreviations Chapter 1: Franciscan Renaissance Chapter 2: The Vine and the Hedge Chapter 3: A Visit to a Friary Chapter 4: In the School of Franciscan Perfection Chapter 5: Holy and Devout Studies Chapter 6: A Day of Prayer and Work Chapter 7: Silence Chapter 8: Knights of Lady Poverty Chapter 9: An Extremely Harsh Life Chapter 10: In the Cenacle of Love Chapter 11: Holy Humility Chapter 12: Ministers and Servants Chapter 13: In Filial Subjection Chapter 14: The Splendour of Purity Chapter 15: Praying Souls Chapter 16: The Flowering of Piety Chapter 17: Heralds of the Gospel Chapter 18: Sowers of Goodness Chapter 19: The Cloister and the Street Index of Persons and Places