Francis of Assisi: A Paragon of Subversive Piety
- Fiach OBroin-Molloy
- Jun 7, 2023
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 10, 2023
In the annals of human history, there are a few individuals whose lives transcend the boundaries of time, leaving an indelible mark on the collective consciousness of humanity.
“Where there is discord may we bring harmony. Where there is error, may we bring truth. Where there is doubt, may we bring faith. Where there is despair, may we bring hope.”
One such luminary is Francis of Assisi, an enigmatic figure whose unwavering devotion to faith, boundless love for all creatures, and uncompromising commitment to humility continue to inspire generations. This blog post delves into the profound influence of Francis of Assisi, exploring the intricacies of his life, his spiritual legacy, and the enduring lessons we can glean from his extraordinary journey.
“The deeds you do may be the only sermon some persons will hear today.”
The Life of Francis of Assisi - Born Giovanni di Pietro di Bernardone in 1181 in Assisi, Italy, Francis of Assisi embarked upon a transformative spiritual journey that would redefine his existence and leave an indelible mark on the world. Renouncing his affluent lifestyle, he embraced a life of simplicity, poverty, and radical devotion to God.
The Radical Humility of Francis - Francis of Assisi exemplified profound humility throughout his life. He viewed himself as a servant of God and considered all creatures as his brothers and sisters, treating them with love, compassion, and respect. His humility extended beyond humanity to encompass nature itself, inspiring reverence for the environment.
Francis's Divine Connection with Nature - One of the most awe-inspiring aspects of Francis's spiritual journey was his deep connection with nature. He saw the divine in every living being and element of creation, recognising the interconnectedness of all things. This profound reverence for nature reverberates through his famous Canticle of the Sun, a hymn celebrating the beauty and sacredness of creation.
Francis's Radical Poverty - Embracing a life of radical poverty, Francis renounced material possessions and dedicated himself to serving the poor and marginalised. His selfless acts of charity and compassion reflected his unwavering commitment to imitate the life of Christ and foster a more egalitarian society.
Francis's Stigmatisation and Mystical Experiences - Francis of Assisi's unwavering devotion to God culminated in profound mystical experiences, the most notable being the stigmatisation, where he bore the physical wounds of Christ's crucifixion. This extraordinary event deepened his spiritual connection and solidified his reputation as a revered mystic.
Francis's Legacy and the Franciscan Order - The impact of Francis's teachings and example was far-reaching, leading to the establishment of the Franciscan Order. Today, the Franciscans continue to embody his principles of simplicity, poverty, and love for all creation, working tirelessly to alleviate suffering and promote social justice worldwide.
Lessons from Francis of Assisi - Francis's life offers timeless lessons for individuals seeking a deeper spiritual connection and a more compassionate existence. His unwavering faith, radical humility, and dedication to serving others provide a roadmap for navigating the complexities of modern life with grace and integrity.
Francis of Assisi's remarkable life stands as a testament to the power of unwavering faith, radical humility, and boundless love for all beings. His enduring legacy inspires us to reevaluate our priorities, embrace simplicity, and cultivate a deep reverence for the interconnectedness of all creation. By immersing ourselves in Francis's teachings, we can aspire to transform our lives, our communities, and our world into a more compassionate and harmonious place.
“Preach the Gospel at all times. Use words if necessary.”
References
Boff, L. (2012). Francis of Assisi: A Model of Subversive Piety. Orbis Books. Link
Cunningham, L. S. (2005). Francis of Assisi: Performing the Gospel of Life. Wipf and Stock Publishers. Link
Johnson, T. (2014). The Spirituality of St. Francis of Assisi. HiddenSpring. Link
Moorman, J. R. H. (2009). A History of the Franciscan Order: From Its Origins to the Year 1517. Kessinger Publishing. Link
Bodo, M. (2000). The Way of St. Francis: The Challenge of Franciscan Spirituality for Everyone. HarperOne. Link
Thompson, S. J. (2001). Francis of Assisi: A New Biography. Cornell University Press. Link
Cunningham, L. S. (2012). Francis of Assisi and His "Canticle of Brother Sun" Reassessed. Franciscan Institute Publications. Link
Heizer, G. L. (2010). The Hymns of St. Francis of Assisi. Hope Publishing Company. Link
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