You are viewing this message because your user agent (typically a web browser) doesn't support current Web Standards. Please consider upgrading to 
Francis and Clare continued
The following excerpts may help give you an idea of the spirit behind Francis and Clare's passionate love in their following of Christ:
"Francis and Clare's founding charism was characterised by: their deep relationship with God-Creator, with the crucified Christ, and with the Spirit; a relationship in freedom and equality, with all the brothers and sisters, without distinction. Clare's Rule and writings are a powerful witness to her sisterly love and concern for all her sisters, and 'to build up a bond of unity among them'. Francis' relationship with creation was truly one of brotherhood and sisterhood, and has marked history."
“Francis and Clare's founding charism was characterised by their option for 'Lady Poverty' which was expressed in their identification with the poor Christ, and for Francis, with the poor: the marginalised, the outcast in his society, especially the lepers. Their minority stance had social implications, for they moved away from the 'centre' to the periphery. Francis, by being inserted among the poor, challenged openly the political, social and economic power structures. Francis and Clare's founding charism was characterised by non-violence and peace, which for them was a way of life, and expressed in their relationships. They were peace-givers and peace-makers. Francis' greeting to all peoples was: “Pace e Bene.” This greeting of peace and goodness was a wish and an invitation. He sincerely wanted all those whom he met to have peace in their hearts and to experience only goodness….It is said of Clare that she reflected peace through all that she said and did in her community at San Damiano.”
(Excerpts from 'Living Justice - As Artisans of Peace' Franciscans International publication)