When A Frair Falls Into Sin

If a friar is tempted and falls into mortal sin, he is bound by obedience to have recourse to his guardian. The other friars who know that he has sinned should not embarrass him by speaking about it. They should have the greatest sympathy for him and keep their brother's fall a secret...A friar who falls into venial sin should confess to a confrere who is a priest; if there is no priest present, he should confess to a fellow friar, until he meets a priest who can absolve him sacramentally, as has been said.

Saint Francis of Assisi
LETTER TO A MINISTER

T