More than twenty years after this book was first published, it is considered by scholars to be the definitive history of the early Franciscan Movement. Moorman tells the story of the friars in the first three centuries of their existence. He highlights the impact they had on society, records the problems and disagreements within the order and indicates their contribution to the life of the world and of the Church.
Ordained an Anglican minister in 1929 and appointed Bishop of Ripon in 1959. He led the delegation of Church of England clergy that was invited to observe the Second Vatican Council (1962-1965).
This is a complete history of the Franciscans and provides many insights to the Franciscan orders , Francis's intent and the changes that have occured over time under the direction of ROME that have altered the original intent of Francis.