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Pope Francis declared 2026 as a Special Year of St Francis to commemorate the 800th anniversary of his death in October 2026.
To mark this special occasion we will share a series of reflections - our first is on praying Scripture with St Francis.
PRAYING SCRIPTURE WITH ST FRANCIS
Anonymous of Perugia records that the origins of the Franciscan way came in a Church in Assisi where Francis, Bernard and Peter sought inspiration from the scriptures on how they should live.
With a priest, they opened the scriptures at random and revealed three passages:
If you wish to be perfect, go sell everything you possess and give it to the poor and you shall have treasure in heaven. Matthew (19.21)
Whoever wishes to come after me let him take up his cross and follow me. Matthew (16.24)
Take nothing for the journey. Luke (10.4)
Francis writes about the origin of the order with these words: And after the Lord gave me some brothers, no-one showed me what I had to do, but the Most High revealed to me that I should live according to the form of the Holy Gospel (Testament 14-5).
Question to reflect on:
What scripture passages have given you inspiration in your life?