The consolidation of the Observant movement

The Observants enjoyed papal favour and began to promulgate provincial statutes from 1448. Their leaders, Albert da Sarteano (†1450), John of Capistrano (†1456) and James of the Marches (†1476), were influential figures, whose sermons attracted large audiences; they were connected with the foundation of new communities. Unlike Bernardine, all three travelled to other countries in response to the needs of the Church and the reform. Their growing influence was vital for the implantation of the reform on Italian soil and beyond it. They made the Italian movement one of the wonders of fifteenth-century Europe. The preaching of the Observant friars was instrumental in making peace in cities, several of which enthusiastically sought their assistance. The disciples of the four pillars of the Observance became illustrious preachers and took positions of leadership in the reform movement in the second half of the century. Matthew d'Agrigento, a celebrated preacher, was a leader of the reform in Sicily in the 1420s, whose ministry was praised by Bernardine, his master. Michael da Carcano da Milano's vocation was associated with a sermon delivered by Albert da Sarteano in the piazza of Milan cathedral in 1440. He preached in several cities of Italy, beginning with his Lenten sermons in his native Milan.