BIRTH OF THE FRANCISCAN MISSIONARIES OF MARY
Mother Mary of the Passion had to return to Rome in 1880 to resolve some legal difficulties for the congregation. She had to return yet again in June 1882, and this visit was to provide pivotal in the identity of the congregation. Firstly, she was given approval to open a house in Rome itself, which was a great honor. Secondly, she came into contact with the Minister General of the Order of Friars Minor. As a consequence, she was able to return to her Franciscan roots, and was received into the Third Order of St Francis at the Franciscan Church of Ara Coeli on the following 4 October, the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi. A period of trial began in March 1883, when allegations arose against Mother Mary of the Passion, and she was removed from office, and ordered not to communicate with the Sisters. An inquiry was ordered by Pope Leo XIII, in which she was cleared of all charges. At their General Chapter held in July 1884, she was re-elected as the Superior General of the Institute.
The Institute continued to grow. On 12 August 1885, they received official recognition as a congregation by the Holy See, at which time they also adopted the Rule of the Franciscan Third Order Regular. They then became the Franciscan Missionaries of Mar. The Constitutions received final approval in 1896.
The Institute continued to grow. On 12 August 1885, they received official recognition as a congregation by the Holy See, at which time they also adopted the Rule of the Franciscan Third Order Regular. They then became the Franciscan Missionaries of Mar. The Constitutions received final approval in 1896.
