Description:

In the thirteenth century, St. Bonaventure, the great Doctor of the Church, philosopher, and Franciscan friar composed The Major Legend of St. Francis, a biography of the man he so admired. Perhaps nowhere does the poor man of Assisi's example of Gospel perfection shine so powerfully as in this groundbreaking work. Now, with these twelve erudite lectures, you will explore the powerful question posed by Bonaventure in The Major Legend: Do we wish to admire or to imitate Francis, the perfect follower of Christ? You can take no better guide for this journey than Br. Coughlin, O.F.M., an expert on both Francis and Bonaventure. His deep knowledge is matched by his enthusiastic teaching. You will focus on the many ways Francis's inner transformation, conversion of mind, heart, and choice, was embodied in a manner of life through which Francis became a practitioner, a leader and a herald of Gospel perfection. In each lecture, you will reflect upon his example as a pathway to truth and peace. While the twenty-first century is radically different from the medieval context in which Francis lived, his virtues of humility, right action, and prayerful attentiveness to personal experience are as relevant today as ever. Join St. Francis in leading a life of commitment to Christ today.