Franciscan Spirit

Some of the same challenges that Francis knew in his lifetime are facing all of us today: division, disease, and war.

In the “Canticle,” Francis expresses a way of life, an inner attitude in which he learned to stand before God and to face life itself.

Though he probably didn’t write it, the Peace Prayer attributed to St. Francis captures much of his spirit. He spent time and energy being an “instrument of peace.”

Francis knew in his heart what the cost would be to follow Christ—and he paid it. And so Lady Poverty would be his forever!

Listening to the birds or the sounds of a thunderstorm can put our lives back together. We can sense our place in God’s creation.

Francis embraced the Gospel and challenged the difficulties of his time: faith, church, and society. In our difficult time, it is now ours to do.