Welcome St. Bonaventure to the table!

St. Bonaventure's Influence on the Franciscans

St. Bonaventure, a renowned figure in Franciscan history, played a pivotal role in shaping the theology and philosophy of the Franciscan Order. Hailing from Bagnorea, Italy, he was born around 1221 or 1217. A remarkable anecdote recounts his miraculous healing in youth, attributed to the intercession of St. Francis of Assisi. Joining the Franciscan Order in 1243, Bonaventure pursued his studies in Paris under esteemed scholars like Alexander of Hales and John of Rochelle. In 1257, he was appointed as the superior of the Friars Minor, a position he held for 17 years, bringing stability and structure to the Order.

His impact was profound, earning him the title of the "second founder" of the Franciscans in some circles. Bonaventure's efforts culminated in the formulation of a comprehensive text governing the daily life of the Friars Minor, officially endorsed by the General Chapter of the Order in Narbonne in 1260. Driven by a desire to preserve the authentic legacy of St. Francis of Assisi, he meticulously gathered accounts and testimonies from those who had known the saint firsthand. This meticulous work resulted in a definitive biography of St. Francis, recognized as the official account by the General Chapter of the Friars Minor in 1263.

Prayer

Believing, hoping and loving, with my whole heart, with my whole mind,

and with my whole strength, May I be carried to you, beloved Jesus,

As to the goal of all things, Because you alone are sufficient,

You alone are good and pleasing. To those who seek you and love your name.

For you my, good Jesus, Are the redeemer of the lost,

The savior of the redeemed,

The hope of exiles,

The strength of laborers,

The sweet solace of anguished spirits,

The crown and dignity of the triumphant,

The unique reward and joy of all the citizens of heaven,

The renowned offspring of the supreme God

And the sublime fruit of the virginal womb,

The abundant fountain of all graces,

Of whose fullness we have all received.

St. Bonaventure, The Tree of Life

… St Bonaventure: Pray for Us …

To get to know St. Bonaventure even better please visit:

Keep at it! Keep praying. Love the Lord.

Peace and Grace.