Dear Brothers and Sisters,
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We are all part of history and a story. We are part of the story of our families, of our religion, of the time in which we live. As Franciscans, we are also part of the Franciscan story. There are traditions, stories, devotions, prayers, and sayings involved with all of these groups. Knowing about them helps us to be part of the family. Every so often, Formation Friday will highlight one of these important parts of our story.
Have you ever heard of the Seven Crosses of St. Francis? They appear in the Major Legend of St. Francis by St. Bonaventure. You can find some interesting talks on this topic on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=seven+crosses+of+St.+Francis
Meanwhile, here is a summary. Thank you to Chris Leone, OFS, Our Lady of the Angels Regional Fraternity.
The First Cross
Francis has a dream in which he sees a room filled with armor. He hears the question, “Who is it better to follow, the master or the servant?” (Chapter 1, par 3)
The Second Cross
St. Francis sees a vision of Christ crucified which pierces the depth of his soul. (Chapter 1, Par 5)
The Third Cross
Francis hears a voice from the cross in the chapel of San Damiano, “Francis, go and repair my house which, as you see, is all being destroyed.” (Chapter 2, par 1)
The Fourth Cross
Sylvester, a man of an upright way of life, has a vision of St. Francis with a golden cross issuing from his mouth. (Chapter 3, par 5)
The Fifth Cross
A troubadour sees an image of St. Francis with two crossed swords going from his head to his feet and from hand to hand. (Chapter 4, par 9)
The Sixth Cross
Brother Monaldo, a man of virtue, has a vision of St. Francis on the cross while St. Anthony is preaching. (Chapter 4, par 10)
The Seventh Cross
St. Francis sees the image of the crucified in the wings of the seraph on Mount La Verna and receives the stigmata. (Chapter 13, par 3)
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Questions to ponder, discuss, or answer in my journal. Think about St. Francis’s life as you answer.
· How does St. Francis’s discernment process help you to discern your vocation?
· St. Francis often meditated on the Cross of Christ and finally received the stigmata. How is meditating on the Cross important to your prayer life? How could it help you deepen your prayer?
Chair, National Formation Commission
