Franciscan Centenaries never cease to surprise and nourish us simultaneously. Having joined Francis during the last year—accompanying him on his journey to La Verna—we have come to know and understand him a little better. We enjoyed his beatific vision of the flaming Seraphim and, without any doubt, ended up just like him: that is, despite the pain caused by the wounds we received, we emerged with a renewed desire “to serve the lepers” with more determination. In this way, the pain of injustices, wrongs suffered..., etc., not only failed to annihilate us, but became precisely a gushing source of service.
St. Francis remains an inexhaustible source of inspiration for this year as well, stimulating both our intellect and our actions with his Praise. Yes, because when his body's strength failed—rendering him physically unable to serve—his spirit remained ever fertile and fruitful, expressing its gratitude to the Creator through song and praise. In this context, the Canticle of the Creatures becomes a strong invitation for each of us to follow his example.
