Chapter 3

As soon as the Clerics are able to obtain Breviaries, let them perform the Divine Office according to the usage of the Holy Roman Church, except for the Psalter.

As for the Lay Brothers, let them say twenty-four Our Fathers for Matins; five for Lauds; seven for each of these Hours: Prime, Terce, Sext, None; twelve for Vespers, and seven for Compline. They should also offer prayers for the dead.

Let the Brothers fast from All Saints’ Day until Christmas. Regarding the holy Lent that begins at Epiphany and lasts for forty consecutive days, which Our Lord sanctified by His own holy fast, let those who wish to observe it be blessed by the Lord, but let no one be forced to do so.

However, all must fast during the other Lent that lasts until Easter. At other times, they shall only be required to fast on Fridays; and in cases of evident necessity, they shall not be obligated to fast at all.

When my Brothers appear in the world, I advise, warn, and exhort them in Our Lord Jesus Christ to avoid quarrels and disputes, and to refrain from judging others. Instead, they should be gentle, peaceful, modest, approachable, and humble, speaking respectfully to everyone in accordance with the rules of propriety.

They must not ride on horseback unless illness or an evident necessity compels them.

Wherever they enter a house, let them begin by saying: Peace be to this house. According to the permission given in the Holy Gospel, they may eat any food that is set before them.