Chapter CIV. How in a chapter he resigned his office: and concerning a certain prayer

143. In order to observe the virtue of holy humility, few years after his conversion, Francis, in a chapter in the presence of all the brethren of the Order, resigned the office of Superior in these words: "Henceforth I am dead to you; but here," he said, "is brother Peter Cathanii, and let you and me all obey him". Whereupon he bowed down before him and promised him obedience and reverence. The brethren therefore began to weep, and grief drew loud wailings from them when they saw themselves in some sort¹ orphaned of such a father. Then the blessed Francis arose, clasped his hands, and said, raising his eyes to heaven: "O Lord, I commend to Thee the family that Thou hast hitherto committed to me; and now, because of the infirmities which Thou knowest, sweetest Lord, being unable to take care of it, I entrust it to the Ministers. Be they bound to give account to Thee in the day of judgment, if any brother perish through their negligence or example, or even their harsh correction." Thenceforth he remained in subjection until death, behaving with greater humility than any of the other brethren.