There is no doubt that St. Francis loved the Catholic Church and remained obedient to her teachings. His life was shaped by the same faith that continues to guide the Church today. 

On this Feast of Pentecost, we recall how the Holy Spirit descended upon the Apostles in the Upper Room, filling them with wisdom and courage to proclaim the Gospel. That same Holy Spirit has guided the Church throughout the centuries and continues to do so today. 

Francis placed deep trust in the Holy Spirit. He even referred to the Spirit as the “Minister General” of the Franciscan Order, encouraging his followers to rely not on human reasoning alone, but on divine inspiration. In his Prayer before the Crucifix, Francis asked to be filled with the light of the Spirit so that he might know and carry out God’s will. For him, true wisdom came not from knowledge alone, but from the action of the Holy Spirit working within the soul. 

Francis believed it was the Holy Spirit who led him to embrace the “poor Christ,” guiding him into a life marked by peace, charity, and a deep connection with all of creation. From his conversion, through the founding of the Order, and even in his suffering, Francis trusted that the Spirit was directing every step. He sought to live as a true “man of the Spirit,” continually shaped by God’s presence and grace. 

This week, let us open our hearts to the Holy Spirit. May we trust in His guidance, seek His wisdom, and allow Him to lead us more fully into God’s will.