October 4, 2025

While Francis of Assisi may be best known as the pious-faced saint who adorns the lawns of Catholics and animal lovers the world over, he was a real person who lived an authentic life. Francis grew up the son of a wealthy merchant.  He led a carefree and indulgent lifestyle and eventually joined the local militia in the hopes of gaining worldly glory during this period of fair maidens and courtly love.  Nevertheless, he was captured in his very first battle, spent over a year as a prisoner of war, and returned home shell-shocked.  After a second unsuccessful attempt to become a war hero, the despondent Francis returned home permanently.  Everyone was stunned, as the life of the party moped around town trying to figure out the meaning of his life.  Years, in fact, passed with Francis becoming increasingly absorbed in his soul searching, awkward ascetical practices and lonely vigils.  Then, one day, after everyone had written him off as a lost cause, the miracle happened: he had a vision of Christ, his mission came into focus, and he single-handedly transformed Medieval Europe.  Let’s be patient enough, long enough, like Francis, for the miracle to happen in our own lives.  We too shall be surprised by the story that the Lord wants to write with our broken dreams and restless hearts.  Ave Crux, Spes Unica.