Bernard of Quintavalle: The First Follower of Francis
Within Francis of Assisi’s lifetime, his brotherhood had attracted 5000 friars who had spread throughout Europe. Yet, one might wonder, who was Francis’ first follower? The eight centuries of living in community and serving Christ had to begin with another man who saw in Francis’ way of being a life that he himself wanted to lead.
His name was Bernard of Quintavalle. A very affluent denizen of Assisi, he was known as a wise and virtuous man. Francis’ acceptance of humility and poverty deeply affected Bernard. In fact, on one occasion Bernard invited Francis to spend a night at his house. Francis instead of sleeping prayed all night. This deep devotion to God convinced Bernard that he wanted to be Francis’ disciple, living life the Franciscan way.
The tomb of St. Francis along with the tombs of his early followers,
including Bernard of Quintavalle
Francis responded affirmatively to Bernard’s request to join him as a disciple. He and Bernard went to mass at a nearby church where Francis asked the priest to open the Bible three times. On each opening the following passages drew Francis’ attention:
1. "If you wish to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor" (Matthew 19:21).
2. "Take nothing for the way" (Mark 6:8).
3. "If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me" (Matthew 16:24).
St. Francis of Assisi
These passages became the way of life for Francis, Bernard, and the other men who joined them.
In their life together as brothers, Francis and Bernard became very close. Francis respected Bernard who was older and very holy. He travelled with Bernard to Florence and Bologna amongst many other cities. They were on their way to North Africa together when they encountered a very sick man. Bernard knew that he had to care for the man until Francis returned from preaching in North Africa. It was the Franciscan thing to do.
Not much else is known about Bernard of Quintavalle. He died around 1241 and is buried in the Basilica of St. Francis, very close to Francis’ tomb.
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