Riformati

The early history of the Recollects and the Riformati is not easy to unravel. The origin of both groups is closely connected with the houses of recollection that had been a feature of Franciscan life from the beginning. Francesco da Jesi (1469-1549) and Bernardino d'Asti (1484-1554) are usually claimed as the founders of the Reformed. In 1532 Clement VII allowed these two friars to organize some Italian houses of recollection under the jurisdiction of the Observant provincial. In 1570 Gregory XIII released these houses from the authority of the Observant Provincials, and in 1595 they were allowed to adopt their own constitutions. In 1621 Gregory XV granted them their own vice general and general chapter, which gave them complete autonomy. In 1897 Leo XIII with his constitution Felicitate quadam decreed that in the future the official name of the Friars Minor would be Order of Friars Minor, with no added designations. This was confirmed by Pius X in 1909.

From the description of Minori Riformati, 1471 (copy)-1758. (University of Michigan). WorldCat record id: 145567957