Rusecki, I. (Wydział Teologiczny w Tarnowie, 2003)
The establishment of the Bernardines as the observance line in St. Francis of Assisi Minor Brethren Monastic Order is strictly connected with St. John Capistrano, a famous Franciscan missionary and a great supporter of reforming the Order. He come to Poland in 1453. Within a short period of time the Bernardines became very popular in Poland and in 1772 (the declining period of Polish independence) they owned over 180 convents. While discussing their activity, special emphasis should be put on their priestly work perfomed not only in their monastic churches but also outside them. The present article is an attempt to give a short outline of the Bernardines in the jubilee year of their 550 years of activity in Poland. Part one presents a short history of setting up the Order, its development and work. In part two the author describes Bernardine’s monastery in Tarnów, its foundation and activity.
