Our last excursion was to another walled city atop a hill. Assisi is the birthplace of St Francis, the son of a prosperous
silk merchant in the 12th century. Following a vision in his youth, Francis abandoned his life of
wealth devoting himself to God and a life of poverty eventually founding the
Franciscan order. The synopsis of his life can be seen in the beautiful frescoes lining the walls of the Basilica named after him. Italians have a deep appreciation for beauty. Even the ceilings are covered with rich art in the porticoes as well as buildings.
Assisi is likewise the birthplace
of St Clare, who also abandoned a life of wealth after hearing St Francis
preach. Neither of their families were happy about their decisions. Both have very interesting life stories. Many of us will remember the
beautiful film Brother Sun sister Moon directed
by Franco Zeffirelli (1972).
The well-known prayer, often
referred to as Make Me an Instrument of
Your Peace, is attributed to St Francis.
Lord, make me an instrument of Thy peace;
Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
Where there is injury, pardon;
Where there is doubt, the faith;
Where there is despair, hope;
Where there is darkness, light;
Where there is injury, pardon;
Where there is doubt, the faith;
Where there is despair, hope;
Where there is darkness, light;
And where there is sadness, joy.
O Divine Master, Grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled, as to console;
To be understood, as to understand;
To be understood, as to understand;
To be loved as to love.For it is in giving that we receive; It is in pardoning that we are pardoned; And it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.
After touring the Basilica, we had time to wander the steep streets of Assisi finishing our time with an aperitivo at the Piazza Commune. Afterward we began our descent out of the village enjoying the beautiful twilight scenery as we went.
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| Assisi - also referred to as The City of Peace |
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