October 2006

May the Lord give you and the world His peace. Last month I wrote about vocations and the cross. This month I would like to write about Saint Francis! Every October 3rd, on the anniversary of the death of St. Francis, franciscans celebrate the Transitus. I have included links below to some great franciscan publications, the actual writings of St. Francis, biographies, studies, etc. Also, remember that October is the month of the rosary, the 7th the feast of Our Lady of the Rosary; the 13th the anniversary of the last apparition at Fatima (1917)

St. Francis (c. 1182-1226) and St. Clare (c. 1193-1254) together shaped the spirituality of early 13th-century Europe. Here for the first time in English are their complete writings, brought together in one volume. The complete writings of Saint Francis and Saint Clare found here.

The Life of St. Francis of Assisi. Written shortly after his death by St. Bonaventure, this is the Franciscans' official biography of their great founder. His unusual vocation, life, miracles and greatness--all portrayed briefly, with love and honesty. Learn about the founder of one of the largest religious orders in the world. Inspiring! 192 pages. Found here.

Reviewers have judged St. Francis of Assisi: A Biography to be that rarity among books about saints: a popular work of inspiring spiritual reading that is also an acclaimed work of modern scholarship. With spiritual insight and careful historical judgment, Omer Englebert blends the many facets of St. Francis' personality into a portrait of a saint who can inspire men and women today. Found here.

We are praying for you and your discernment everyday, especially on Wednesdays. Let us set our hands to the plow in the Lord's vineyard and not look back! "The man who plants and the man who waters have one purpose, and each will be rewarded according to his own labor" (1 Cor 3:8).