Diane M. Houdek

Just as Francis and his brothers welcomed Clare, the communion of saints encourages us on our way.

Francis has strong words for those who steadfastly refuse to adopt a life of peace, kindness, love of God and neighbor.

Francis understood that the way to imitate Jesus was by doing the good works that he had done, but there was also a mystical dimension to that identification.

“Are you greater than our father Abraham?” (John 8:53). Francis wanted to make sure that his brothers understood that any glory they might experience always reflected

“If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free” (John

“When you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you will realize that I am he, and that I do nothing on my own…” (John

“Neither do I condemn you” (John 8:11). While Francis was on his journey to visit the sultan, he stayed overnight in an inn, where he