Franciscan advent

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Saint Francis’s final and most meaningful Lent began before Advent, starting on the Feast of All Saints and concluding on Christmas Eve. This special period of fasting and preparation reflected Francis’s deep desire to ready his spirit for the coming of the Lord. In Franciscan tradition, this “Lent of Saint Francis” became a model of spiritual vigilance, mirroring the saint’s lifelong commitment to living in expectation of Christ’s presence.

Saint Bonaventure describes Francis as “the herald of the Great King,” a figure whose mission paralleled that of John the Baptist. Baptized Giovanni, Francis embraced the prophetic role of announcing Christ with the fervor of a “voice crying out in the desert.” For this reason, the Franciscan charism understands Francis—and all who follow his way—as people of perpetual Advent: men and women who watch, prepare, and open their hearts continually for the coming of Christ, not only during the liturgical season but throughout the year.

Franciscan Advent is marked by its evangelical, Marian, and deeply inclusive spirit. It calls Franciscans to prepare the world for Christ’s coming by smoothing paths of injustice, healing spiritual and social wounds, and proclaiming the Good News with humility and joy. Like Mary, Franciscans are invited to carry Christ within them and bring his presence to others, especially the poor and forgotten. Although Advent liturgically concludes at Christmas, the Franciscan tradition extends this attitude into daily life: a perpetual Advent in which the followers of Francis bear witness to Christ’s Passion, Resurrection, and the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit.