Pope Francis

Following Franc
With roots extending back
Regular (TOR) are car
This early 17th century work by Jusepe
de Ribera portrays St. Francis of Assisi in
meditation before a crucifix. The skull in his
hands is a reminder of the brevity of life.
Walking in the
footsteps of St.
Francis of Assisi,
the Franciscan
Friars of the
Third Order Regular (TOR) are
taking time during “2015, The Year
of Consecrated Life” to rediscover
their roots, evaluate their present
work, and reaffirm their efforts
in serving Christ’s Church going
forward.
The order’s roots extend back
nearly 800 years to St. Francis. Early
in his life, Francis was no saint,
according to many accounts. A
handsome, charming, and wealthy
young man, he was once known for
drinking, partying, and having little
time for God.
That lifestyle changed
dramatically, however, after Francis
heard the voice of God and began a
journey toward conversion. One of his
greatest fulfillments came from aiding
a leper, whose kiss of peace in return
filled Francis with joy. Francis would
continue to minister to the poor, adopt
a humble life of poverty himself, and
respond to God’s call to repair his
Church.
Francis became a charismatic
penitent — a devoted Christian who
repents his sins and seeks forgiveness
from God. His pious example and
good deeds toward others attracted
many brothers in Christ, who
ventured forth to help spread the
Word of God.
That ministry gave rise to Franciscan
orders of priests, nuns, and lay brothers
and sisters. Among those was the Third
Page 26 North Texas Catholic September / oCtober 2015