Read by Br. William Short, O.F.M., S.T.L., S.T.D

You will love this extraordinary course. St. Francis of Assisi invented the way Catholics celebrate Christmas. The Stations of the Cross go back to his inspiration. Eucharistic devotions are rooted in his 13th-century writings. Prayers honoring the Virgin Mary can be traced to his ideas. A deep affection for Jesus in the events of His earthly life made Francis love the Gospel. Prolonged meditation on the words of Jesus bore fruit in form of Francis' writings and way of life. Franciscan spirituality is the treasure we have received from this ''little poor man'' of Assisi. In this series of lectures, former Franciscan School of Theology president Br. William "Bill" Short shares some of the treasures of Franciscan spirituality. These lectures focus on the writings and life of Francis himself, without forgetting the contributions of St. Clare of Assisi, St. Bonaventure, St. Anthony of Padua and Br. John Duns Scotus. Franciscan spirituality is still a growing worldwide religious phenomenon today, and its modern-day influence will not be neglected. This rich spiritual tradition also poses questions that can puzzle us. The primary virtues for Francis, after charity, are humility and patience. Why is that? Why does he consider joy a good defense against the devil's influence? What led his followers to connect the Incarnation of the Word with the creation of the universe? Explore the profound and accessible Franciscan spiritual tradition, one that sees Christ at the heart of the world. This is the gift of St. Francis: it is ''the treasure of a poor man.''

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