Declaration of Brother Pierre de Jean Olivi before his death

Source: Castet 1680, vol. 2, p. 328

(1) First, I say that the renunciation of all temporal rights and the use of poverty are of the essence of our Evangelical life; and by “use of poverty,” I mean that which, all circumstances considered, is judged to incline more toward poverty than toward abundance.

(2) Secondly, I affirm that it is a mortal sin, not excused by crass or willful ignorance, to stubbornly defend violations of poverty and imperfections against the Rule, claiming they are good; or to force religious to practice them, and to persecute those who wish to observe the Rule in its full purity. ¹

(3) Thirdly, I say that it is worse to introduce such relaxations into the body of the Order than merely to lead a few individuals astray, because in the first case the harm spreads more widely; that faults which tend to establish themselves and take root are less tolerable than those that can be easily corrected; and that public transgressions are more criminal than secret ones, because of the scandal they cause.

(4) Fourthly, I believe that excessive expenditures on buildings, whether in material or in decorative excess, and the importunate begging they require are very dangerous; especially for those who defend them or compel others to contribute to them, for they tend toward the destruction of poverty and have long-lasting effects.

(5) Fifthly, I say that it goes against the purity of the Rule to litigate for funerals and pious legacies; for even if this is done through spiritual friends, if the religious themselves push for it, provide the expenses, or supply the documents, though scandal may be avoided, it is still a hidden deceit and a veiled impurity. I say the same of those who procure regular annual revenues or provisions, anticipating needs with too much foresight.

(6) Sixthly, I affirm that it is folly, error, and blasphemy against the Rule to say that we are permitted to wear fine clothing, go about shod, ride horses, and live in as much abundance and comfort as if we were Canons Regular.

(7) Seventhly, I say that seeking burial arrangements with such eagerness for profit, as if, without gain, one would not bother, and instituting memorial services (obits) greatly diminishes the perfection of our state.

(8) Lastly, I believe that our religious who are elevated to the episcopate must observe the Rule they have vowed, as far as their new state allows.