Minute Meditations

“Unless you see signs and wonders you will not believe” (John 4:48). Francis strenuously denied the suggestions that he was a saint. He kept hidden the marks of the stigmata. He refused to let people attribute miracles to him. He ...

“Jesus answered, ‘Neither this man nor his parents sinned; he was born blind so that God’s works might be revealed in him’” (John 9:3). Just as spiritual blindness can be far more devastating than the loss of physical sight, so ...

“He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous and regarded others with contempt” (Luke 18:9). Humility is one of the most enduring characteristics of Francis’s life and attitudes. It’s the foundation of his ...

“Which commandment is the first of all?” (Mark 12 :28). One of the best stories about St. Francis is his explanation to Brother Leo about “perfect joy.” “When we come to St. Mary of the Angels, soaked by the rain and ...

“Every kingdom divided against itself becomes a desert, and house falls on house” (Luke 11:17) At the time of Francis, Italy was not a united nation, but numerous city-states, each with its own ruler and militia. Francis was well-acquainted with constantly ...

“Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets; I have come not to abolish but to fulfill” (Matthew 5:17). Francis holds his followers to the highest standards of the Gospel. Like the great St. ...