Preach or Pray: St. Francis Seeks Guidance from Holy Friends

Early in his career, St. Francis of Assisi was in great agony of doubt about how to proceed. Should he devote himself to prayer and meditation alone or to preach? A humble man, he sought out the wisdom of others to know God’s will for his ministry.

He sent a messenger to Sister Clare and Brother Silvester asking them to “pray devoutly to God, with one of [their] more spiritual companions” about whether he should only devote himself to prayer or to also preach.

When the messenger returned with their answer, Francis first washed his feet and prepared him a meal. Then, kneeling,…