SAINT FRANCIS IN THE FUTURE
With our global population growing fast, we need to think about global humanity and the cost of not being stewards of creation. Thinking like Francis might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about peace, but it's an important thought that we can all have.
We need children to be raised knowing that the environment as a whole is a precious resource and that the respect we have for each other isn't just given; it's earned. Thinking like Francis is a great way to do this - he may have lived 900 years ago but his messages to society and charism haven't changed in the context of society.
HOW CAN YOU BE LIKE ST FRANCIS?
St Francis is one of the most important figures in the Church today. And while we can't all repair churches or speak to animals, we can do a bit in a modern context.
1.
You can be a modern stewardship of creation. Don't let rubbish just pass you on the street. It might not be yours, but the planet belongs to everyone, and you're letting everyone down if you just ignore that rubbish.
2.
Try to pray as much as possible: to be a modern Christian, you don't need to constantly attend church. But before that job interview or exam, say a prayer - Francis is there.
3.
Don't be normal - St Francis wasn't perfect to society - he defied its expectations to be like Jesus. You don't have to be the coolest person in school, because being interesting and being someone that interests you is all that matters.
4.
Respecting nature and those around you is what made Francis the man he is. Through Jesus' words, actions, and values, he cared for the wellbeing of nature and how everyone is responsible for the world around them.
5.
Be the person you have always wanted to be - Francis wasn't truly happy until he discovered who he was and his purpose. Don't feel pressured to find your purpose right away, think about it and realise when the time is right.
