Chapter 6

That the Brothers should have nothing of their own, no house, no place, nor any other possession, but should see themselves as travelers and strangers in this world. Let them serve the Lord in poverty and humility, and go forth with confidence to beg for alms.

They should not be ashamed to do so, since Our Lord made Himself poor in this world out of love for us. Such is the excellence of this sublime poverty, my dearest Brothers, which has made you heirs and kings of the Kingdom of Heaven. It has stripped you of earthly goods but has made you great in virtue. Let this be your portion, for it leads to the land of the living. Embrace it fully, my dearest Brothers, and for the Name of Our Lord Jesus Christ, never desire to possess anything else under Heaven.

Wherever the Brothers may be or meet, let them treat one another as children of the same household, so that they may confidently share their needs with one another.

For if a mother nourishes and loves her child according to the flesh, how much more should each one love and care for his Brother according to the spirit?

And if any one of them falls ill, let the other Brothers serve him as they would wish to be served themselves.