In 1257, at the age of 36, the Franciscan Friar Bonaventure was elected Minister-General of the Franciscan Order. He has been called, for good reason, “the second founder” of the Franciscans. The Order was coming under criticism in his time as a result of a huge increase in numbers and poor organization, with the resulting internal divisions. While strongly defending the ideals of St. Francis, Bonaventure insisted on the need for study, on having libraries, and on having proper buildings. He approved of the Friars studying and teaching in universities. He saw the Franciscan role as complementing the work of the diocesan clergy through preaching and spiritual direction. True to the heritage which Francis had left the Order, Bonaventure both promoted and lived simple and frugal poverty, hard work, and detachment from material possessions. In 1265, he was nominated Archbishop of York by Pope Clement IV, but he declined the honor. However, in 1273, he was made Bishop of Albano by Pope Gregory X, with a command not to refuse. It is said that when the papal messengers called on him, he was washing dishes in the friary kitchen. He asked them to wait until he had finished!
Let us pray. Grant, almighty God, that, just as we celebrate the saintly life of St. Bonaventure, we may benefit from his great learning and constantly imitate his charity. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Quote: “Spiritual joy is the best sign that a heart is filled with grace.”
