Taught by an award-winning teacher and leading Franciscan scholar, this inspiring course is a must-have for thoughtful Christians.

Far from being a relic of the Middle Ages, Franciscan spirituality remains a growing and vital movement worldwide. Its influence has shaped many of the most popular Catholic devotions, from the Stations of the Cross to Eucharistic Adoration. Now, The Spirituality of St. Francis of Assisi invites you to learn from the Franciscan tradition of living the gospel.

Under the guidance of Br. William Short, O.F.M., S.T.D., from the Franciscan School of Theology, you will look at the spiritual writings of St. Francis and his followers, as well as how they put their beliefs into practice. Br. Short’s powerful yet accessible lectures deliver you the heart of the treasures from this “little poor man of Assisi.”

In this 12-lecture course, you will explore St. Francis’s spiritual practices, life of prayer, and meditations on the Crucified Christ. You will also reflect on profound questions posed by the Franciscan tradition. Why does Francis consider joy a good defense against the influence of evil? How does the Incarnation of the Word relate to creation? What can the Gospel reveal about the “poverty of God?”

You will then look at the contributions of St. Clare of Assisi, St. Bonaventure, St. Anthony of Padua, and Bl. John Duns Scotus. Finally, you will explore the modern-day legacy of St. Francis.

By exploring the rich Franciscan spiritual tradition, you will encounter Christ at the heart of the world. This is the gift of St. Francis: “the treasure of a poor man.”

This course is part of the Learn25 collection and includes a free PDF study guide.