Bernard of Quintavalle was a noble from Assisi who became the earliest disciple of St. Francis of Assisi. After a spiritual encounter in 1208, he surrendered his wealth to help the poor and joined the movement that would become the Franciscan order. Known as the first fruit of the Minor Orders, he supported Francis through various missionary travels and served as a provincial minister in Spain. He remained a dedicated follower of the original rule throughout his life.