First Rule of Saint Francis (obsolete)

The First Rule of St. Francis was approved by Pope Innocent III without a papal bull. Although it was later replaced by Saint Francis’ definitive Rule, it still offers insight into his original intentions.

Source: Robinson 1906, pp. 31-64.

In the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost. Amen. This is the life that Brother Francis begged might be conceded to him and confirmed by the Lord Pope Innocent. And he [the Pope] has conceded and confirmed it to him and to his brothers present and future.

Brother Francis, and whoever may be at the head of this religion, promises obedience and reverence to our Lord Pope Innocent and to his successors. And the other brothers shall be bound to obey Brother Francis and his successors.

• Chapter 1
  That the Brothers ought to live in Obedience, without Property and in Chastity.
• Chapter 2
  Of the Reception and Clothing of the Brothers.
• Chapter 3
  Of the Divine Office and of the Fast.
• Chapter 4
  Of the Ministers and the other Brothers: how they shall be ranged.
• Chapter 5
  Of the Correction of the Brothers who offend.
• Chapter 6
  Of the Recourse of the Brothers to their Ministers and that no Brother may be called Prior.
• Chapter 7
  Of the Manner of serving and working.
• Chapter 8
  That the Brothers must not receive Money.
• Chapter 9
  Of asking for Alms.
• Chapter 10
  Of the sick Brothers.
• Chapter 11
  That the Brothers ought not to speak evil or detract, but ought to love one another.
• Chapter 12
  Of avoiding unbecoming Looks and the Company of Women.
• Chapter 13
  Of the Punishment of Fornicators.
• Chapter 14
  How the Brothers should go through the World.
• Chapter 15
  That the Brothers may not keep Beasts nor ride.
• Chapter 16
  Of those who go among the Saracens and other Infidels.
• Chapter 17
  Of Preachers.
• Chapter 18
  How the Ministers should meet together.
• Chapter 19
  That all the Brothers must live in a Catholic way.