Rewriting the Rule by Julie A. Ferraro
The Earlier Rule of 1221:
History, Theology, and Vision
Edited by Thomas A. Piolata, OFM Cap
and David B. Couturier, OFM Cap
Franciscan Institute Publications, 2023
$24.95 201 pp.
David Couturier, OFM Cap, begins the introduction to this volume with a very valid question: “Why should anyone, including vowed Franciscans, spend time studying the contents of the Earlier Rule of St. Francis?”
This version of Francis of Assisi’s directives to his brothers came between the very basic document penned in 1209 and verbally approved by Pope Innocent III, and the Regula Bullata (the formally approved Rule) of 1223. In its context as an “interim” document, a compilation of concerns Francis assembled as he saw his fledgling Order expanding to multiple European countries and into Africa, it nonetheless speaks volumes about the Little Poor Man’s mindset as he struggled through his own chronic illnesses to create a firm foundation for those who would follow after him. Piolata and Couturier’s book explores the wisdom of this Rule, which was pulled together over a course of 12 years, drew heavily from the gospels and other biblical texts, and melded the spiritual with the practical.
Couturier observes that the fractious political and economic situation in Assisi and beyond while this Rule was being written compelled the men who joined Francis to seek “a peace that the present social stratification and class conflicts . . . could not supply.” These early brothers sought an experience of God more genuine than what was being offered by bishops who were also soldiers.
By taking the reader into the depths of the creation of the Earlier Rule of 1221, it is possible to gain an understanding of the drama of that 13th-century era which, not surprisingly, is very similar to what is being endured in the 21st century.
Among the book’s contributors, besides the co-editors themselves, are Dominic Monti, OFM, who reflects on the Letter of the Franciscan Ministers General on the Earlier Rule of 1221; Professor Jay M. Hammond, writing on living a gospel life as encompassed by the Earlier Rule; Jeffrey Jordan, OFM, who looks at the Earlier Rule as a dialogue between Francis of Assisi and Jesus; and Wayne Hellman, OFM Conv, outlining how the Earlier Rule can provide a roadmap for the future.
The contributors’ backgrounds range from Couturier’s as head of the Franciscan Institute at St. Bonaventure University in New York State, to academics from St. Louis University, Pontifical Universities in Rome, and other prestigious educational institutions.
The book is divided into sections, and each paper within is well researched, with ample citations for continued study. Hammond devotes nearly 60 pages to his comprehensive, nearly line-by-line assessment of the Earlier Rule of 1221, noting that it is the longest of St. Francis’s writings.
Benjamin L. Johnson, OFM Cap, delves into the maturity required to grasp the calling to be a Lesser Brother (as the Franciscans were originally known) and to live that call effectively. He notes how “Francis demonstrates a great sensitivity to the person’s freedom of choice,” while also recognizing that trials and temptations—and the accompanying psychological difficulties—must be dealt with through a discerning use of that same freedom.
Hellman reminds the reader that healthy personal relationships are key to a life in fraternity, or religious community, and are necessary to attract new vocations. This somewhat narrow focus can be extended to daily life as well, where laypeople interact with neighbors, co-workers, and complete strangers. The Earlier Rule of 1221, along with Francis’ other writings, can thus be applied to the modern era in ways that might eliminate some of the conflict reported each day by the media.
The Earlier Rule of 1221—both the original document and this expanded commentary—should not only be essential reading for Franciscans and Franciscans at heart, but for those of other charisms who can draw inspiration from it to continue their own spiritual journey. ♦
Julie A. Ferraro has been a journalist for over 30 years, covering diverse beats for secular newspapers as well as writing for many Catholic publications. A mother and grandmother, she currently lives in Idaho. Her column, “God ‘n Life,” appears regularly in Today’s American Catholic.
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