Holy Obedience Due Our Bishops

 Photo of Pond at the Portiuncula Hermitage and Retreat Center in Jerusalem, Ohio

 

'When the friars have examined the land necessary for a house,' Francis said, 'they should go to the Bishop of that city and say to him, "My Lord so-and-so is willing to give us so much land for the love of God and for the salvation of his soul, so that we may build a house there. We are therefore coming to you first of all, because you are the father and lord of the souls of all the flock entrusted to you, as well as of ourselves and of all the brethren who will dwell in this place. So, with God's blessing and your own, we would like to build there." '

He spoke this because the harvest of souls which the friars desire to gather is more readily obtained by working in harmony with the clergy, thereby helping both them and the people, than by antagonizing them, even though they may win the people.

Saint Francis of Assisi
Mirror of Perfection - 10

T

Chris Dickson, F.L.A.