The Lessons of St. Francis: How to Bring Simplicity and Spirituality into Your Daily Life »

The life of St. Francis of Assisi was a paradigm of simplicity, humanity, and love. In today's busy world, his practices have enormous appeal, described in this inspiring work by John Michael Talbot, the founder of The Brothers and Sisters of Charity, a lay order based on the Franciscan principles of simplicity and self-sufficiency. In The Lessons Of St. Francis, Talbot and co-author Steve Rabey demonstrate the enduring significance of Franciscan wisdom. Organized by topic, such as Simplicity, Humility, Compassion, Solitude, Service, and Prayer, each chapter includes excerpts from the writings of St. Francis, as well as those of his followers and biographers. Combining deep spiritual insights with the offer of a saner, less chaotic way of living, The Lessons Of St. Francis offers wise advice on how to incorporate these virtues into our own lives today.

Library Journal

Well-known Christian musician Talbot founded the Brothers and Sisters of Charity, a Franciscan lay order. Here he discusses their way of life, which is based on the ideals of simplicity, service, and love for creation that St. Francis of Assisi inpired. Drawing on insights from the saint's enigmatic life, Talbot encourages readers to pare down the overwhelming demands of modern existence and to distinguish between the needs of interior life and the pull of worldly desires. Readable and filled with concrete suggestions, this is sure to appeal to seekers of a more simple and authentic life.