PDF Summary:The Writings of St. Francis of Assisi, by St. Francis of Assisi

The Writings of St. Francis of Assisi provides an intimate look at the mind and heart of St. Francis of Assisi, the revered Catholic friar and founder of the Franciscan Order. This blended biography and compilation allows readers to explore St. Francis' spiritual teachings directly through his vivid, poetic writings.

The text showcases St. Francis' passionate embrace of poverty and humility, his reverence for the Eucharist and divine liturgy, and his celebration of creation through masterpieces like the renowned Canticle of the Sun. Personal letters offer a window into his care for the spiritual well-being of his Franciscan brothers, while prayers reflect his deep love for God and the Virgin Mary.

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• Create a "pilgrim's wallet" for a week, carrying only the essentials like an ID, a small amount of cash, and a phone for emergencies. This will give you a tangible sense of living with minimal attachments and reliance on material things, fostering a mindset of simplicity and resourcefulness.
• Volunteer for a cause that supports underprivileged communities, dedicating a portion of your time each week. Through this direct engagement, you'll experience firsthand the non-material wealth that comes from contributing to the well-being of others, reinforcing the idea that spiritual richness often lies in acts of service and simplicity.

St. Francis's Views on Eucharist and Divine Office Practices

Respecting the Host, Clergy, and the Importance of Devoutly Praying Liturgical Hours

St. Francis's works are saturated with a deep reverence for the Eucharist and a steadfast commitment to the practice of the Divine Office, highlighting their crucial role in Franciscan life. The author meticulously analyzes Assisi's expressions on these themes, drawing attention to their recurrence throughout various works. For instance, in the First Admonition, Assisi quotes directly from Scripture (John 14: 6-9), emphasizing the indivisible connection between seeing Christ and encountering the Father. He underscores the importance of spiritual perception, stating people who witnessed Jesus in human form but lacked faith in His divinity were condemned. He draws a powerful parallel, stating those who gaze upon the sacramental Body of Christ, consecrated at the altar, without perceiving its true spiritual essence likewise face condemnation.

In his missive to his friar brothers, Assisi implores them, particularly those ordained as priests, to approach the celebration of Mass with purity and a profound reverence for the Holy Sacrifice. He cautions against allowing earthly concerns or the desire for human approval to taint their intentions during this sacred act. He admonishes his Franciscan priests to remember the severity of punishments meted out for transgressions against God's law, as described in the Old Testament, and underscores the even greater gravity of neglecting Christ and profaning the New Covenant's Blood. Assisi stresses the need for utmost holiness and reverence when handling the Eucharist, drawing a parallel to Mary's role as the one who bore Christ in her womb, and John the Baptist, who trembled even to touch Christ's forehead. He underscores the immense dignity bestowed upon priests who not only touch but consume the physical presence of Jesus. He emphasizes that this privilege demands a life that seeks to emulate that very holiness they encounter in Communion.

Context

• St. Francis's emphasis on these practices aligns with the Church's efforts to ensure that liturgical celebrations were conducted with reverence and authenticity, countering any laxity or corruption.
• During St. Francis's time, the Church faced various heresies that questioned the nature of Christ, including His divinity. This was a period when the Church was actively defending orthodox beliefs against such challenges.
• The reference to John 14:6-9 highlights the importance of faith in recognizing Jesus as the way to the Father. This scriptural foundation supports the idea that true understanding requires faith, not just physical sight.
• In medieval society, honor and reputation were significant social currencies. Clergy might be tempted to perform religious duties for the sake of gaining prestige or favor, rather than out of genuine devotion.
• The New Covenant, established through Jesus Christ, is seen as a fulfillment and transformation of the Old Covenant. It emphasizes grace and redemption but also carries a profound responsibility to honor Christ's sacrifice, especially in the context of the Eucharist.
• In Catholic teaching, profaning the Eucharist is not just a liturgical error but a moral failing that can have spiritual consequences, affecting one's relationship with God and the Church community.
• Priests are seen as mediators between God and the congregation. Their handling of the Eucharist is a sacred duty, requiring them to embody the holiness and purity that the sacrament represents.
• In biblical narratives, touch often signifies a deep spiritual connection or transfer of blessing. The act of touching Christ, as in the case of John the Baptist, symbolizes reverence and recognition of His divine authority.
• During the time of St. Francis, the Church emphasized the sanctity and mystery of the Eucharist, which was central to medieval Christian worship. The Fourth Lateran Council in 1215, for instance, reinforced the doctrine of transubstantiation, highlighting the importance of the Eucharist in Catholic life.
• The act of receiving Communion is not just a ritual but a call to spiritual transformation. It invites believers, especially priests, to internalize Christ’s teachings and reflect His love and humility in their daily lives.

St. Francis' Writings Urge Virtues Like Charity, Tolerance, and Modesty

Condemning Pride, Greed, and Detraction While Calling For Christ-Like Self-Denial and Compassion

St. Francis, across his writings, passionately urges the cultivation of virtues like charity, tolerance, and modesty, portraying these as the essential qualities that shape his religious vision. He vehemently condemns vices such as pride, greed, and detraction, advocating instead for Christ-like self-denial and compassion in life. The author carefully demonstrates how Assisi weaves these themes throughout his writings. In his Fourth Admonition, the author points out, Assisi highlights the danger of seeking control and dominion, warning instead that true greatness lies in a humble embrace of service. He cautions his fellow friars against the dangers of prioritizing self-importance over a genuine commitment to following Christ's example of leadership through humility.

In the Fifth Admonition, Assisi uses a powerful image to convey this message, stating that humans should take no pride in knowledge, skills, wealth, or even power over demons. Instead, he emphasizes that authentic glory resides in our weaknesses and through the daily embrace of Christ's Holy Cross. This concept of finding strength in humility is further echoed in the 16th Admonition, where he calls for compassion towards our neighbors, advocating for a deep understanding and acceptance of human frailty. He challenges his fellow friars to extend the same level of kindness and patience to others that they would hope to experience in a similar circumstance. In his "Letter to Every Christian," Assisi reinforces this point by reminding his readers that true adorers worship God in sincerity and truth, cultivating a state of purity within.

Context

• In the Christian tradition, charity is considered the highest form of love, reflecting the love of God for humanity. St. Francis emphasized living a life of poverty and giving to the poor, embodying the principle that true wealth is found in spiritual richness rather than material possessions.
• Greed, or avarice, is the intense and selfish desire for something, especially wealth or power. In the context of St. Francis's teachings, greed is contrary to the values of poverty and simplicity that he espoused. It distracts individuals from spiritual pursuits and the well-being of others.
• In practice, Christ-like self-denial and compassion might involve acts of charity, voluntary poverty, and a commitment to social justice, reflecting a life dedicated to serving others and living out the teachings of Jesus.
• St. Francis was influenced by the idea of "servant leadership," which prioritizes the needs of others and encourages leaders to serve first. This philosophy contrasts with traditional hierarchical models of leadership focused on power and control.
• The idea of humility as a virtue can be traced back to earlier Christian thinkers like Augustine, who also emphasized the importance of humility in the Christian life, influencing St. Francis's perspective.
• The idea of finding greatness in service aligns with the Christian philosophical tradition, which values the inversion of worldly power dynamics, where the last shall be first, and the meek shall inherit the earth.
• In the medieval Christian worldview, having power over demons was sometimes associated with spiritual authority or prowess. St. Francis's warning against taking pride in such power underscores the belief that true spiritual strength comes from God, not from human abilities or achievements.
• Within the Christian mystical tradition, embracing one's weaknesses is seen as a path to experiencing God's presence more profoundly, as it involves surrendering personal ego and control.
• By advocating for acceptance of human frailty, St. Francis recognized the importance of acknowledging one's limitations and the need for mutual support, which aligns with modern psychological understandings of empathy and community.
• The emphasis on these virtues also aligns with the Franciscan vow of poverty, as it encourages a focus on spiritual wealth and interpersonal relationships over material possessions and social status.
• The call for kindness and patience is rooted in the teachings of Jesus, particularly the Sermon on the Mount, which emphasizes love, mercy, and forgiveness.
• For St. Francis, worshiping in sincerity and truth meant living out one's faith in everyday actions, demonstrating love and compassion to others as a reflection of one's devotion to God.

St. Francis' Personal Correspondence

St. Francis's Letters Show His Role as a Religious Guide, Offering Advice, Encouragement, and Correction

Letters Address Obedience, Treatment of Fallen Siblings, and Following Franciscan Life

St. Francis's epistles highlight his profound role as a spiritual director, providing invaluable insights into his approach to guiding his brothers. They offer a personal touch, conveying his advice, support, and, when necessary, correction, all aimed at nurturing their spiritual growth within the Franciscan way of life. The author notes how these letters provide guidance on a range of practical matters, including obedience within the Order, how to treat brothers who have sinned, and unwaveringly following the Franciscan Rule. For example, in his "Letter to a Certain Minister," Assisi directly confronts the minister's approach to dealing with brothers who have committed sins, emphasizing a compassionate and merciful response.

Assisi emphasizes the concept of true compliance, not as blind adherence to commands, but as a discerning act grounded in seeking God's will and the betterment of souls. He reminds the religious leader that encountering someone asking for forgiveness presents an opportunity to draw that soul closer to God, urging the leader to extend love and compassion even more readily than to Assisi himself. This profound emphasis on love and forgiveness underscores the importance of pastoral care within the community of Franciscans.

Context

• In the medieval period, letters were a primary means of communication for leaders to instruct and guide their followers, especially in religious communities spread across different regions.
• The Franciscan Rule, established by St. Francis, was a set of guidelines for living a life of poverty, humility, and service. Letters often addressed how to practically implement these ideals in daily life.
• In the context of religious life, obedience is a vow taken by members of religious orders, signifying their commitment to follow the directives of their superiors as a form of spiritual discipline. This obedience is not merely about following orders but is seen as a way to align one's will with God's will, fostering humility and community harmony.
• During St. Francis's time, the Church often emphasized strict penance and punishment for sins. His approach was revolutionary, focusing on mercy and compassion, aligning with the broader Christian message of forgiveness.
• The Bible contains numerous references to forgiveness, such as the parable of the Prodigal Son, which illustrates God's readiness to forgive and welcome back those who repent.
• In the context of pastoral care, love and forgiveness are vital for healing and reconciliation. They help individuals overcome guilt and shame, fostering a supportive environment where spiritual growth can flourish.

Letters From St. Francis on Managing the Franciscan Order

St. Francis' Concern for the Spiritual Well-Being of His Brothers and Faithful Implementation of the Franciscan Rule

The correspondence of St. Francis not only provides a glimpse of his role as a spiritual advisor, but also reveals his deep concern for the overall governance of the Franciscan Order. They highlight his intense focus on ensuring the spiritual well-being of his brethren and the consistent and faithful implementation of the Franciscan Rule. This concern is evident in his "Letter to the Friars," where he expresses his profound reverence for the Eucharist and the importance of the Liturgy of the Hours, stressing their central role in Franciscan spirituality. He directly addresses the order's priests, urging them to approach Mass with purity of heart and intent, avoiding all worldly motivation.

Assisi admonishes his followers to treat the objects used in liturgical practices with utmost reverence, emphasizing their connection to God's sacred messages. He also outlines specific instructions and expectations for the Order's leaders, calling for them to uphold the Rule rigorously and ensure that all members observe it. This dedication to the Franciscan Rule is further emphasized in his "Letter to Custodes," where he calls upon the custodes to promote respect for the Eucharist among the clergy and laity alike. He charges them with spreading the message of repentance and the importance of receiving the Eucharist for salvation.

Context

• St. Francis was involved in resolving conflicts within the Order, understanding that harmony and peace were essential for the spiritual well-being of the community.
• St. Francis intended the Rule to be a living document, adaptable to the needs of the community while maintaining its core spiritual principles.
• This is a set of prayers recited at specific times of the day by clergy, religious, and devout laypeople. It is a way to sanctify the day and is considered the official prayer of the Church, reflecting the rhythm of daily life and the liturgical calendar.
• The Mass is central to Catholic worship, believed to be a re-presentation of Christ's sacrifice. Approaching it with purity ensures that the celebrant is fully aligned with its sacred purpose.
• During the time of St. Francis, the Church placed great importance on the physical elements used in worship, such as chalices, vestments, and altars. These objects were seen as conduits of divine grace and were integral to the sacred rituals of the Church.
• The leaders faced challenges such as external pressures from the Church and society, as well as internal issues like differing interpretations of the Rule, which required careful management and guidance.
• In the Franciscan Order, custodes were officials responsible for overseeing the spiritual and administrative aspects of the friaries within a specific region. They acted as intermediaries between the local communities and the higher leadership of the Order.

St. Francis' Letter Shows Tender Bond and Guidance for Brother Leo

Autograph Letter in Saint Francis's Hand, a Precious Relic of His Spiritual Life

The author highlights Assisi's personal relationship with Brother Leo, emphasizing the tenderness and spiritual guidance the holy figure expressed toward his close companion. He points to a letter, penned entirely by Francis himself, as a concrete testament to this deep connection. Currently a cherished relic housed at Spoleto Cathedral, the letter offers a heartfelt glimpse into their special bond. The author notes that this is one of only two known autographs by St. Francis, making it a particularly poignant and historically significant artifact.

The language of the letter reflects a deep affection, with St. Francis speaking to Brother Leo with fatherly love and maternal care. The content is simple yet profound, offering a distillation of the guidance and encouragement Assisi shared with Leo. He reminds Leo of the principles they discussed during their travels together, urging him to seek God's purpose above all else and to remain steadfast in following Christ's example of living without possessions. This personal letter reflects the close relationships that were integral to the early Franciscan Order, and sheds light on how St. Francis mentored those closest to him.

Context

• Brother Leo was one of St. Francis's closest companions and a member of the early Franciscan community. He often served as St. Francis's secretary and confidant, which allowed him to witness and document many aspects of Francis's life and teachings.
• Spoleto Cathedral, where the letter is housed, is a significant religious site in Italy. It serves as a repository for important religious artifacts, enhancing the letter's value as a spiritual and historical treasure.
• Documents from the 13th century face significant preservation challenges due to the fragility of materials like parchment and ink. The survival of an autograph in good condition is noteworthy and adds to its historical value.
• The use of both fatherly and maternal descriptors highlights a holistic approach to care, suggesting a nurturing and protective relationship that transcends traditional gender roles.
• The letter's focus on seeking God's purpose aligns with the broader Christian teaching of discerning one's vocation and living according to divine will, a central theme in Christian spirituality.
• The personal relationships and mentorship within the order contributed to the development of a distinct Franciscan spirituality, characterized by joy, simplicity, and a deep connection to nature and humanity.

St. Francis' Devotional and Prayer-Focused Works

St. Francis' Praises and Salutation Reflect His Deep Love For God and the Virgin Mary

St. Francis' Poetic Celebrations and Biblical Passages

The author describes two devotional works, "The Praises" and "The Salutation of the Blessed Virgin," that vividly express St. Francis' profound love for God and the Virgin Mary. The works beautifully blend scriptural passages with Assisi's poetic language, showcasing his unique ability to combine traditional religious expressions with heartfelt and evocative style. In "The Praises," Assisi opens with a heartfelt version of the Lord’s Prayer, expanding upon each line to create a beautiful meditation on the attributes of God.

These Praises contain soaring language celebrating God's holiness, strength, and all-encompassing love. The author observes that the work goes beyond mere intellectual reflection and embraces a deeply personal and experiential tone. This suggests that Assisi's life of prayer was not merely about formal pronouncements of faith but about a passionate and intimate engagement with the divine. In the “Salutation of the Blessed Virgin", Assisi's love for Mary, the Mother of God, shines through. He employs a series of poetic acclamations that highlight Mary’s role in God’s plan of salvation, emphasizing her purity, holiness, and special connection to the Spirit. Assisi concludes the work with a powerful acknowledgment of Mary’s role in nurturing the virtues of believers, transforming them from a state of infidelity to a steadfast dedication to God.

Context

• The use of symbolic language in his works, such as light and purity, was common in religious texts of the time, aiming to convey complex theological ideas in an accessible way.
• St. Francis often incorporated imagery from nature, reflecting his belief in the interconnectedness of all creation. This approach added a vivid and tangible quality to his spiritual expressions.
• During St. Francis' time, expanding on prayers was a common practice among mystics and theologians who sought to explore the depths of spiritual texts beyond their literal meanings.
• In Christian theology, God's holiness refers to His absolute purity and moral perfection. It signifies being set apart from sin and is a central attribute of God, often inspiring awe and reverence among believers.
• During the medieval period, religious expression often involved a blend of intellectual theology and personal devotion, reflecting the era's emphasis on both scholasticism and mysticism.
• During St. Francis' time, devotion to Mary was widespread, with many religious orders and communities emphasizing her importance, which would have shaped his own expressions of love and reverence.
• The doctrine of the Immaculate Conception, which holds that Mary was conceived without original sin, underscores her purity and is a key aspect of her veneration in the Catholic Church.
• Devotions to Mary, such as the Rosary, are common in Catholic practice and are believed to help believers meditate on the life of Christ and the virtues of Mary, fostering spiritual growth and dedication to God.

The Song of Brother Sun: Celebrating God's Creation and Harmony With Nature

Masterpiece of Spirituality and Medieval Poetry Recognized for a Follower's Exceptional Improvisation

The "Canticle of the Sun," a unique and celebrated piece by St. Francis, vividly captures his profound reverence for God's creation and his belief in humanity's harmonious relationship with all of nature. This work is both a masterpiece of Franciscan spirituality and a highly regarded piece of medieval poetry, acclaimed for its sublime improvisation and heartfelt expression of Assisi's connection to the natural world. The author traces the origins of this canticle to a period of illness in Assisi's life, noting its composition in a humble hut near San Damiano Monastery.

The beauty of the "Canticle of the Sun," as noted by the author, lies in its simplicity and its all-embracing spirit. Assisi addresses the elements of creation—the sun, moon, stars, wind, water, fire, and earth—as siblings, praising each for its unique role in sustaining life and reflecting God's majesty. This remarkable kinship with nature, expressed in the hymn, profoundly resonates with modern readers, particularly against the backdrop of contemporary concerns for environmental preservation and a renewed appreciation for the interconnectedness of all living beings. This masterpiece of spiritual expression cements St. Francis' enduring legacy as the saintly protector of animals and the environment.

Context

• The canticle reflects Franciscan theology, which emphasizes poverty, humility, and the belief that all creation is a reflection of God's glory, encouraging a life of simplicity and gratitude.
• In the context of medieval poetry, improvisation refers to the spontaneous and creative expression of ideas and emotions. This technique was often used to convey personal and spiritual experiences in a way that felt immediate and heartfelt.
• The humble hut near San Damiano symbolizes St. Francis' commitment to poverty and simplicity, core tenets of his spiritual philosophy and lifestyle.
• In modern times, the canticle is often cited in discussions about environmental ethics and stewardship, highlighting its timeless message of respect and care for the natural world.
• The idea of addressing elements as siblings can be linked to biblical themes, such as the Psalms, which often personify nature in praise of God. This reflects a tradition of seeing creation as a community of praise.
• On Care for Our Common Home," which draws inspiration from St. Francis and addresses environmental issues such as climate change, pollution, and the loss of biodiversity. This document has further connected St. Francis' views with modern environmental concerns.
• St. Francis' feast day on October 4th is often marked by ceremonies blessing animals, reflecting his legendary rapport with creatures and his belief in their intrinsic value.