mendicans

Mendicans is a term derived from the Latin word "mendicare," meaning "to beg." It refers to members of certain religious orders in Christianity who take vows of poverty and live by alms and charitable donations. These orders are also known as mendicant orders. Historically, mendicant orders emerged in the 13th century, a period of significant social and religious upheaval. Unlike monastic orders that lived in self-sufficient communities, mendicant friars were intended to live among the populace, preaching, teaching, and ministering to the poor and sick.

The most prominent mendicant orders include the Franciscans, founded by Saint Francis of Assisi, and the Dominicans, founded by Saint Dominic. Other significant orders include the Carmelites and the Augustinians. These friars often traveled extensively, relying on the generosity of the faithful for their sustenance. Their lifestyle was a deliberate rejection of accumulated wealth and property, intended to emulate the life of Christ and the apostles. The mendicant movement had a profound impact on medieval society, fostering piety and providing social services that were often lacking. While their initial fervor and impact were immense, some mendicant orders later faced criticism for accumulating wealth and deviating from their original ideals. Despite these challenges, mendicant orders continue to exist today, though their methods of support and outreach have evolved.