Relating to the religious order founded by Saint Francis of Assisi in 1209, emphasizing poverty, simplicity, and service to the poor. Franciscans took vows of poverty and became known as mendicant friars who lived by begging.
From Medieval Latin 'Franciscanus,' meaning 'of Francis,' named after Saint Francis of Assisi (1181-1226). Francis comes from 'Franciscus,' meaning 'Frenchman,' though the saint was Italian.
The Franciscans revolutionized medieval Christianity by taking their ministry to the streets instead of hiding in monasteries! Their emphasis on poverty was so radical that it split the order - some 'Spiritual Franciscans' were actually persecuted by the Church for being too faithful to Francis's ideals.
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