Friars

By Crusader1307

With the growth of Christianity, The Church Leaders became more worldly than most Christians thought appropriate. By the 12th Century, many people rebelled against what they perceived to be The Church's hypocrisy (especially towards wealth). This lead to the establishment of new religious Orders whose members were known as Friars. Initially, these Orders (known as Mendicants – or “begging” Orders that relied on other people to survive), - they modified the Rules of their Orders and Friars assumed a prominent place in Medieval religious life. There were 4 main Orders of Friars. The Franciscan, The Dominican, Augustinian and Carmelite.

Many of The Middle Ages greatest theologians were Friars. Although their philosophy was different with each Order, they all held to the same theological belief that they could have no possessions or wealth and had to subsist on the charity of the local Town, Village or City. Their main goal was to convert. During The Middle Ages, people began to question The Church and created their own religious Orders. The Cathars was one. In most cases, “splinter Groups” were deemed as Heretic by The Church. Many saw The Friar Movement as a response to these impromptu organizations. Friars differed from the traditional Monk.

While Monks devoted themselves to prayer and religious study in Monasteries (without the benefit of outside contact), Friars were itinerant. They interacted more with the Public and were seen actually “doing” charitable deeds. Friars were finally allowed to use Church property for shelter. These houses (called Friaries), were technically owned by The Pope (so The Friars would not be construed as “Property Owners”. Although not initially welcome in a Community, their establishments of Hospitals and Schools lead people to change their thinking. Many Friar Organizations still exist.