(e)mergent Voyageurs

One of the reasons I have not had the time to write more of substance here of late is one of my major writing projects I have been working on. While I'll hold off on the details, it has had me doing some in depth studying into the life of Saint Francis of Assisi. As a result, you will probably see him come up more often in the coming months.

Among the many interesting aspects of his life, a unique pair of characteristics emerged that I just love. Most of us think about nature and Creation when we think of St. Francis, as he has become the patron saint of enviromentalism. At the same time, he was the pioneer of a new kind of monasticism, one that centered the rhythm of its life in urban centers rather than the typical rural seclusion. The more I study this, the more important I think it is for us today for several reasons.

First, the nature of the Franciscan order became one that embraced the pastoral engagement of the priesthood with the communal life according to a strict rule of the monastics. The resulting expression was remarkably powerful in its model of Christlikeness. The people were drawn to these selfless, devout and relational men who (while far from faultless) represented spiritual authority free of abuse, agenda and politics.

Second, he modelled a relationship to Creation that was sacramental in its reverance without compromising his love and commitment to people. This is critical for Christians who believe ecological issue are important to our faith. It is not that many are likely to focus on environmental issue at the expense of people, but rather that we still see these spheres are important but separate. Francis had an inclusive view of Creation, which saw humanity as centrally important, but inseperably connected to all of Creation.

When we look beyond the stereotypes of St. Francis' life, we find him to be a man of God with a complex faith from which we have much to learn. And we can learn as much from his flawed humanity- and be sure, he could be way out there- as from his admirable passion. I am eager to see what else lies in store as I continue my research and writing.

What about you? What do you love about Francis? Are there anythings you don't like?