“Preach the Gospel at all times, if necessary use words.”  The words are often attributed to St. Francis of Assisi – and certainly reflects a part of the Franciscan charism – but…. he never said it.  People sometimes wonder why I am persistent in reminding people that this very popular expression is only a cliché and a pale image of St. Francis.  Well, that is because it is in these type of reductions we try to harness, control and make safe the life of the saint from Assisi instead of letting us be swept away by the full story. Continue reading →