St Francis of Assisi - Part 4 - The Preacher

By David Torkington -
It was in the church of St Mary of the Angels that a momentous event took place in the life of St Francis. It took place in 1208 on the feast of St Matthias that was then celebrated on the 24th February. When the priest was reading the Gospel St Francis’ heart leapt within him. He became totally convinced that at last God had spoken to him. This time he spoke through the words of the scriptures.
"As you go out, proclaim that the kingdom of God is close at hand. Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, and cast out devils. You received without charge, give without charge. Provide yourself with no gold or silver, not even a few coppers for your purses, no haversack for your journey no spare tunic or footwear or staff, for the workman deserves his keep. Whatever town or village you go into, ask for someone trustworthy and stay with him until you leave. As you enter his house salute it, and if the house deserves it, let your peace descend upon it; if it does not, let your peace come back to you" (Matthew 10: 7-13).  read on....

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