Capuchin (Christian order)

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Scope note
Monastic order founded in 1529 by Matteo da Bascio (1495-1552) as a reform movement. It is an autonomous branch of the Franciscans and prescribes a very strict rule emphasizing austerity and poverty. In seeking to return to the greater simplicity of early Franciscans and their literal observance of the rule of St. Francis of Assisi, Matteo wore the pointed cowl or hood (capuce) of St. Francis and he introduced aspects of the solitary life of the hermit. Despite opposition from established groups of Franciscans and near-suppression when their vicar-general became a Protestant in 1542, the zeal and preaching of the Capuchins made them powerful during the Counter-Reformation as they appealed to common and country people. In 1619 they officially became an independent order. Matteo and his followers devoted themselves to caring for victims of the plague from the 16th to the 18th century; they are also noted for their missionary and social work.
Capuchin
Accepted term: 18-Nov-2024