+ Widespread heresy, scandals among the clergy, and a decline in
attendance threatened the Church of St. Francis’ day. The son of a rich cloth
merchant, Francis converted to a life of prayer in his early twenties.
In a dream, God told him, “Go
and repair my church, which, as you can see, is in ruins.” Francis began
rebuilding the crumbling structure of San Damiano. But his great work of
renewal was the new form of life he embraced in 1208.
His radical poverty and
passionate preaching drew five thousand men to the Friars Minor in the next
twelve years. Francis died in 1226 in Assisi, and was canonized just two years
later.
But wait, there is more to
tell – the hidden story – the pre-story to Francis’ rebuilding project was the
fact that God first rebuilt and transformed Francis into a poor and humble
servant – from inside out – through afflictions of mind, body and spirit; in
fact, he rebuilt Francis into the image of him that he always had in mind that
was beyond the wildest imaginings of the rich young knight from Assisi.
After being rebuilt, Francis
was ready to take his marching orders from Christ his True King and Lord – and
the overflowing river of peace onto the Mystical Body of Christ flows into our
very day!
And now we – we who have been
transformed and remade according to God’s own image and design for not only us
but also for our monastic pets - are
called to be instruments of peace, and joy and hope – to a world just awaiting
its promised renewal, regeneration and rebirth.
Yes,
Lord, we are here, we are ready, we are willing – use us as you will as poor,
humble slaves! – and co-creators with you of a hope-filled, peaceful, joyful
world.
Guide
us, Lord, along the everlasting way!
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