Rev Left Radio [BEST OF] St. Francis of Assisi: Patron Saint of Ecology & Brother to All Creation
May 19, 2025
Adnan Husain, a medieval historian and Director at Queen's University, dives into the life of St. Francis of Assisi, exploring his profound spiritual legacy. They discuss Francis's radical transformation, commitment to peace with the Sultan of Egypt, and his deep connection to nature. The conversation highlights the ecological dimensions of Francis's teachings and the relevance of his virtues in today's social justice movements. With humor and insight, Husain reveals how Francis’s ideals challenge modern materialism and inspire ecological stewardship.
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Francis' Radical Life Choice
- St. Francis rejected wealth and family ties to live a humble, itinerant life preaching peace and penance.
- His life offered a new religious model focused on action and egalitarian brotherhood outside traditional monasticism.
Imitatio Christi and Peace
- Francis took literally the call to imitate Christ by giving all possessions away and living in humility.
- His greeting "God give you peace" countered pervasive violence and factionalism in medieval Italy.
Francis' Humility and Compassion
- Francis once feared lepers but overcame this to embrace them as brothers.
- He publicly humiliated himself after sermons to reject pride and prevent being revered as holy.