Franciscan Spirituality

An old ladder reaching into the night starry sky.

Creation Is a Ladder to God

Penance, poverty, humility and compassion were the values that forged Francis into a “cosmic brother,” one who was related to all creatures and to the elements of creation.
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A statue of St. Francis of Assisi on a horse as a young soldier

St. Francis Encounters the Crucified Christ

The Franciscan path to God is an inversion of monastic values. Rather than fleeing the world to find God, God is to be found in the world. The idea that “the world is our cloister” finds its root in Francis ...
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priest holding the sacramental bread to the sky.

St. Francis and the Body of Christ

Thomas of Celano, an early friar and author of three hagiographies of Francis, wrote that the saint “burned with a love that came from his whole being for the sacrament of the Lord’s body.”
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person drawing a heart in the sand

Love As St. Francis Did

To fully love as Francis did, there is no compartmentalizing. Can I follow this example?
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An arrested criminal is seen in this illustration photo. Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam signed legislation March 24, 2021, making Virginia the 23rd state to abolish the death penalty. (CNS photo/Victor Pena, Reuters)

Kolbe House: The Saving Grace of Prison Inmates

This parish-based agency in Chicago offers hope to those jailed in both body and spirit.
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hands holding a rosary during prayer

Prayer Is Born from Love

Prayer is a relationship with God. Relationships take time and are based on love
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