St. Francis and the Casa Mission
The Franciscan Renewal Center friars and staff with our community embrace a vision and experience a benevolent loving God.
All are welcome….Many are coming…..Jesus told Francis…Rebuild My Church…He began..the Franciscan Renewal Center continues this…
St.Francis did…we at the Franciscan Renewal Center do…join us…visit us.
Francesco had a mystical vision while in the Church of San Damiano in which the Icon of Christ Crucified said to him, “Go and repair My house which, as you can see, is falling into ruins.”
Following this vision, Francesco lived for months as a beggar in the Assisi area. His family and friends, in particular, his father, tried to change Francesco’s mind. When this didn’t work, he threatened his son and even beat him. But Francesco’s heart and mind were made up. He wanted nothing to do with his former life. He now had a new life with a new purpose.
Shortly thereafter, Francesco heard a sermon at a nearby church which further inspired him. He kicked off his shoes, put on a rough textured garment and began preaching to all who would listen including flowers and animals. Soon, Francesco had eleven followers whom he took to Rome in 1209, seeking Pope Innocent III’s permission to found a new religious order.
After hearing Francesco preach in the Church of San Rufino in Assisi, a young girl named Clare became deeply touched by his simple message. In 1211, at the age of 17, Clare established the Order of Poor Clares, a monastic religious order for women in the Franciscan tradition. Clare’s faith blossomed under Francesco’s teachings. The Order of Poor Clares is now found worldwide.
Francesco travelled widely along both sides of the Meditteranean Sea spreading his message of humility, service, and poverty. His followers and his influence increased. Francesco celebrated Christmas by setting up the first nativity scene using real animals. Early biographers tell us Francesco used only a straw-filled manger set between an ox and a donkey.
Following a period of deep prayer, Francesco received the stigmata (wounds of Christ). He suffered from these wounds in addition to a painful eye disease. Despite receiving care from a variety of people and places, nothing seemed to work. Returning to a hut beside his church near Assisi, Francesco passed away on the evening of October 3rd, 1226, at the age of 44. He was surrounded by those who loved him. There is a touching story that while on his deathbed, Francesco thanked his donkey for carrying him and helping him throughout his life and his donkey wept.
We now know Giovanni Francesco di Bernardone as Saint Francis of Assisi, one of the most beloved of saints whose faith and compassion continue to inspire millions.
78% of respondents in a recent Baylor University survey say their God is distant, critical and authoritative God. The Franciscan Spirituality developed by Francis and Clare and through the many Franciscans believe in a loving God that desires relationship. The same is true of the Franciscan Renewal Center which inspires commitment and passion and higher purpose to a loving God. There are plenty of spiritually hungry people and the Casa has plenty of spiritual food. What’s the problem? Peace is worth working and investing in. Come visit the Casa grounds and see our website www.thecasa.org
Peace to all
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