The Way of St. Francis: The Challenge of Franciscan Spirituality for Everyone

When I was directed to the Prayer of St. Francis by a friend, I purchased this book to discover more of the spiritual beliefs that this man lived by. Interwoven into the narrative about the historical aspects of the life of St. Francis of Assisi are the spiritual convictions that led this man away from a life of wealth into a life of service and devotion to God. The chapters are brief, yet they are laden with depth, wisdom and selfless spirituality. I particularly found the chapters on prayer to be intensely profound, helpful and also practical. This book is not written as a "how to manual" on living a God-centered life. What it does is, it sets St. Francis as a role model, an example of living a spiritual life, and it is up to the reader to discover how to follow through with those examples in their own lives.

Bodo's "The Way of St. Francis" is a very satisfying read for novices to Franciscan spirituality or veterans. He blends stories and historical data into an applicable creation to a variety of comtemporary issues for modern Christians. It allows us to realize our own humanity and stillstrive to become the saints we are called to. The chapters are concise and the blending of storytelling makes this more of a page turner than your average book on theology or spirituality.

This book changed my life 10 years ago and through the narrative life of the little man of Assisi. A must for anyone wanting to learn about the spirtuality and human aspects of Francis' character.

Fr. Bodo has been so interested in St. Francis for so many years that his depth of understanding is thought-provoking and often startling. Every chapter has some dimension of Francis, the contemplative life, and the lessons of Francescan living that are informative to me personally and important to me Spiritually. This is a book that I will re-read a number of times to try to absorb as many of the ideas as my mind will permit. I am most thankful to have discovered this gem written about one of the most important mystics of all history.

Fr Bodo has created a piece of work that makes St Francis comes alive for us today. The writing is direct and easy to follow. St Francis would be proud of this modern day Franciscan and his views.