Mat chapters

In Franciscan orders, a mat chapter is a spiritually oriented gathering at which the brothers or sisters come together for prayer and exchange of ideas. This type of gathering was introduced by Francis of Assisi .

Francis held the first chapter of mats on Pentecost 1221 on the site near the church Portiuncula below Assisi ; 5000 brothers were gathered at that time. The brothers came to Portiuncula on foot and lay down on straw mats on which they slept; hence the name of the meeting. At this first chapter of mats, Francis presented the non-bulleted rule, which was tightened over the next two years before it was recognized by the Pope. In this chapter, Francis passed the leadership of the Order to Elias of Cortona . On this chapter, Francis sent various brothers to Germany, England and the Orient on mission. Saint Dominic and Saint Anthony of Padua are said to have been present at the chapter. Cardinal Ugolino also took part as a guest, who later became Pope Gregory IX.

In the early days of the order, all brothers who were able to do so met twice a year on Pentecost and on the feast of St. Michael for a chapter of mats.

Today, mat chapters are held at irregular intervals by various Franciscan congregations on a regional or international level. In contrast to the factual or provincial chapter, which is attended by elected representatives, every member of the order can participate in the mat chapter. The focus is on encounters and exchanges on current issues. Occasionally there are also cross-order mat chapters for all Franciscan orders of a country or language area.