Francis of Assisi: His Life, Vision and Companions

(Hardback)

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This is an original and historically informed account of Francis of Assisi, founder of the Franciscans, and one of the most venerated figures in Christianity. The book explores how Francis - along with his earliest brothers - embraced a life of poverty, in solidarity with the lowest ranks of society, preaching a message of justice and dignity for all. It examines how and why his vision then expanded to embrace non-Christians, and Muslims in particular, following Francis's celebrated encounter with the Sultan al-Malik al-Kamil in 1219. This new work also examines the clash between Francis and newer members of his Order, the stimulus for his reception of the stigmata, and his final years spent trying to keep his brothers faithful to their original vision, while living as an exemplar of the gospel life.

Reviews

'With this volume, Michael F. Cusato has succeeded in showing us once more his passion for the Order's tradition, spirituality and history, while intertwining historical sources, hagiography and scientific honesty in a smooth writing style. His insights into the development of the early concept of minoritas are indeed a precious re-reading, and his interesting interpretation of early Franciscan writings and sources truly emanates his zeal to "decipher" Francis's soul and contemplative dynamic. This contribution to discussions on Franciscan theology and spirituality reaffirms the vigor and freshness of Francis's message in our time, so different yet equally challenging.' - Fr. Massimo Fusarelli, Minister General of the Order of Friars Minor; 'Richly researched and enjoyable to read, this biography of St Francis of Assisi is unique in its accentuation of not only the personal religious charism of the Poor Man of Assisi - which gave birth to both the Friars Minor and Poor Clares - but the collective nature of the evangelical project that he developed throughout his lifetime in close association with his earliest companions. This emphasis on the "shared leadership" of Francis, and the excellent knowledge that Michael F. Cusato has of Franciscan sources and recent scholarship in the field, makes the volume a valuable contribution to contemporary interpretations of the Franciscan vision.' - Andre Vauchez, Emeritus Professor of History of the Middle Ages, Universite Paris Nanterre; 'Michael F. Cusato is the most accomplished historian of the early Minorite Movement working today. In his engaging historical narrative, he brings together the insights garnered from his many years of meticulous research and publications on the origins and development of the Lesser Brothers and Sisters in the context of their appearance in Umbria in the late twelfth and early thirteenth centuries. Francis of Assisi: His Life, Vision and Companions sets the standard for any future work on Francis and Clare and the Minorite movement.' - Michael W. Blastic, Distinguished Visiting Professor, Franciscan School of Theology at the University of San Diego; 'This biography of Francis of Assisi presents a comprehensive account of the saint, who revitalized the Church and inspired a new type of religious order. Michael F. Cusato combines current research into the life of the Poor Man of Assisi with his own rich reflections and insights.' - Michael J. P. Robson, Emeritus Fellow, St Edmund's College, Cambridge, and editor of The Cambridge Companion to Francis of Assisi

Author Bio

Michael F. Cusato is a Franciscan friar who is currently 'Scholar-in-Residence' at St Bonaventure University in western New York State. He has published widely on the history of the Franciscan Order in the Middle Ages.