Saint Francis approach to Peace - Part I

Francis of Assisi, patron saint of animals and of our entire ecology, is oftenly seen as idealist. However, idealism is not his only attribute, but there is another quiet but highly strong quality of his temper: he was, or as we catholic firmly believe, he IS a peace seeker.

Capable of achieving not only quality communications, but the most fraternal dialogue with other religions (where there was first none) St. Francis stablished bases for everlasting international relations.

Simply put, Saint Francis was overflown with love, the single most seeked thing by everyone. And this love would both result in, and determine his approach to peace.

While Saint Francis was begging for food, or even rocks to rebuild his beloved churches, noone would actually consider him as the future great peacemaker, easily establishing dialogue between irreconcilable partners.

His prayers and silence ended up being louder than everyone else's arguments and division.

The meeting with the Sultan Malek al-Kamil of Egypt was the pinacle of this primitive diplomacy, achieving settlements and agreements where there were none.

Furthermore, to the eyes of his now family, an everlasting friendship was born.

"Lord, make me an instrument of thy peace" recites which is perhaps the most symbolic prayer of Saint Francis of Asis. Througouht the verses of this simple prayer, we are irresistibly invited to meditate on love, joy, forgiveness, peace, and even suffering.

God faces us, on this world filled with hate and war, loneliness and indifference. And there is only one right answer: beginning our own inner change.

We are called to live in peace, in the peace of God.

So then, oh Lord, make  me an instrument of thy peace.