St. Francis of Assisi: His Life, Teachings, and Practice (The Essential Wisdom Library)

by Jon M. Sweeney, Richard Rohr (Foreword by)

Overview

An introduction to St. Francis's life and his most profound teachings of faith

St. Francis of Assisi is one of the most venerated Christian figures, and his profound teachings, deep love of nature, and commitment to simplicity have resonated with generations of followers. St. Francis of Assisi, the latest title in the Essential Wisdom Library, offers a simple and universal introduction to Francis’s life, his key teachings, and the spiritual practices that enriched his faith and the lives of those who follow his legacy.

Author Jon M. Sweeney, one of the most popular Francis interpreters, introduces the iconic Christian as a man of his time and as one whose wisdom transcends eras. Beginning with a timeline of the saint’s life, St. Francis of Assisi includes the teachings that made Francis such a unique and powerful figure. His words apply to a diverse set of situations—from advice for people in positions of power, to teachings on gratitude, and the Rule of Life which governed every facet of life for Franciscans. The book concludes with explanations of some of his most powerful practices, which can offer wisdom and insight for our own lives.

St. Francis emphasized the importance of living a simple, truthful life, making his spiritual practices just as impactful and relevant in the modern day as they were centuries ago. St. Francis of Assisi is the perfect guide for anyone looking to learn more about the saint or hoping to incorporate his wisdom into their own spiritual lives.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781250209658
Publisher:	St. Martin's Publishing Group
Publication date:	10/01/2019
Series:	The Essential Wisdom Library
Pages:	128
Product dimensions:	5.30(w) x 8.20(h) x 0.40(d)

About the Author

JON M. SWEENEY is an independent scholar and an award-winning writer. He is a biographer of St. Francis of Assisi and translator of his writings, and his books on Franciscan subjects have sold more than two hundred thousand copies. Jon is the author of more than forty books, including The Pope Who Quit, which was optioned by HBO. He edits the magazine Living City, and is religion editor/associate publisher of Monkfish Publishing in Rhinebeck, NY. He’s appeared on CBS Saturday Morning and numerous other programs, and writes regularly for America magazine in the US, and The Tablet in the UK. Jon is married to Rabbi Michal Woll; their interfaith marriage has been profiled in national media. He's the father of four, and lives in Milwaukee.

Table of Contents

Foreword Richard Rohr, O.F.M. ix

Chronology xiii

Introduction 1

St. Francis Changed My Life 7

Some Quick History 16

What Francis Accomplished 22

Francis's Teachings 37

Francis's Spiritual Practices 90

Seeking the Vulnerable 95

Blessing Animals, Stones, Fish, Sun, and Moon 97

Holy Foolishness 98

Denial and Dance 99

Finding Joy 101

Final Thoughts 103

Notes 105

If You Want to Read More 107

Acknowledgments 110

About the Author 111

Editorial Reviews

"This book is a delightful introduction to the life and teachings of St. Francis of Assisi. Written from a generous heart so clearly steeped in his wisdom and teachings, full of both reverence and lightheartedness. Especially invigorating is the section on spiritual practices where readers are invited to embody Franciscan spirituality through connection to creation, joy, embrace of paradox, and simplicity."

—Christine Valters Paintner, PhD, author of The Soul's Slow Ripening: 12 Celtic Practices for Seeking the Sacred and Dreaming of Stones: Poems

"From the moment I started reading the introduction to Francis I felt drawn into a personal, exciting, and inspiring look into the Saint's life. I was thrilled with the author's warning that embracing the freedom, vulnerability, foolishness, and gentleness of Francis could be disruptive. I wanted it, and the book didn't disappoint. I've been inspired to bless almond trees and butterflies and seek from them the confirmation of holiness I suspect is everywhere present."

—Edward Viljoen, Author of The Bhagavad Gita: The Song of God Retold in Simplified English; Ordinary Goodness: The Surprisingly Effortless Path to Creating a Life of Meaning and Beauty; and The Power of Meditation: An Ancient Technique to Access Your Inner Power.

From the Publisher