Monday, March 9, 2015

St. Francis and Pope Francis:Prayer, Poverty, and Joy in Jesus by Alan Schreck

St. Francis and Pope Francis, these are two men you want to know better. Pope Francis is now widely popular and his namesake St. Francis is still popular over 700 years later. Why is this? What is the fascination with each? How do they compare with each other? I have read several books about the life of St. Francis and yes this book has drawn me in and helped me to understand him so much better. The format of Dr. Schreck’s book which gives big insights into St. Francis and his history, then switching to the current Pope Francis is fresh approach. I loved the quotes from Pope Francis. The book was easy to read but not light on content. The contrasts between the two are also brought to light since Pope Francis is not Franciscan but Ignatian. Both men have changed the face of Catholicism. This book is a biography of both men and how both found Christian joy. Isn’t this what we all want? We want joy and peace. We first learn about their conversion stories, then the core of prayer, poverty and communion. We see what is church and how our mission is the same throughout the ages. It all starts and ends with authentic joy through Christ. I would definitely recommend this book to all of you. It will not just give you history facts but a look into the thought processes of both men. Catholics and non Catholics will both enjoy this book.

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