Fr. Tom Speier, OFM gives the reader an informative and concise outline of the foundation of the Order of Friars Minor (The Franciscans). This is a narrative stripped of the legends and myths often associated with the Little Poor Man of Assisi. With this chronology we catch a glimpse of the very real struggles Francis endured and suffered to “repair the Church” of God as he began to gather followers, and as the band of brothers grew and institutionalized. His deteriorating health was matched with his near loss of hope for the brotherhood. While sainthood give glory to God, this brief outline makes concrete the cost of such a life. I highly recommend this small study of the Chronology of St. Francis of Assisi.
