Conventuals

Also known as

  • Order of Friars Minor Conventual
  • Black Franciscans (refers to the colour of their habit)

Article

One of the three religious bodies forming the First Order of Saint Francis. The friars observe the rule of Francis of Assisi, with certain dispensations in regard to poverty. The separation of the Franciscans into two branches which came to be known as Observants and Conventuals formally dates from the Council of Constance (1415), though the tendency towards such a division had been manifest since the death of the founder in 1226. Both branches of the order continued under the same head until 1517. Members make their vows in accordance with new constitutions adopted in 1625. They acknowledge the dispensations contained therein and hence are not bound by all the obligations of the Observants and the Capuchin Friars Minor. The general of the order resides in RomeRome, Italy.

Additional Information

MLA Citation

  • “Conventuals”. New Catholic Dictionary. CatholicSaints.Info. 21 March 2022. Web. 25 April 2024. <>