Poverty and Joy: The Franciscan Tradition

by William J. Short

Book Overview

The Franciscan tradition is as appealing a way of life today as it has been for centuries. William Short focuses first on the importance of the order's founders, Saint Francis and Saint Clare of Assisi, offering an historical introduction. He then reflects on key themes: the Incarnation, poverty as a way to God, suffering and healing, and creation--humanity and nature in harmony. He introduces as well key figures in the Order: Bonaventure Angela of...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1570752958
• ISBN13: 9781570752957
• Release Date: August 1999
• Publisher: Orbis Books
• Length: 143 Pages
• Weight: 0.48 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.3" x 5.4" x 8.3"

Customer Reviews

Earthy and illuminating!

This book is written with such clarity and life giving energy that one is left with a wonderful sense of understanding some key aspects of the Franciscan Tradition such as Franciscan poverty and the "Humility of the Incarnation. I do ecumenical retreat work and am a spiritual director. I recommend this book to anyone who expresses some interest in knowing more about Francis and Clare and the early beginnings of the Franciscans. I am organizing an ecumenical trip to Assisi this summer and encouraging people to consider reading this book before they go on pilgrimage.

The Modern Fransiscans

Easily and quickly readable with some interesting meat in each chapter. Does not dwell much on "mythology of the saints" as does some older books on the Fransiscan movement. Adds some interesting historical sources for Fransiscan theology such as John Duns Scotus.