October 8, 2024

Dear John,

In today’s entry from Pause+Pray, Paul Lipowski reflects on the importance of simplicity as a core Franciscan value. I don’t know about you, but I often struggle with decluttering and removing the distractions that get in the way of a more fulfilled—and simpler—life.

But, as Paul writes, we can look to St. Francis as a guide and inspiration for cutting out the unessential and fixing our gaze on the eternal. I take heart in the fact that St. Francis boldly walked away from a life of distraction—whether it was pursuing ill-fated dreams of knighthood or partying with the youths from Assisi’s wealthy merchant families. He walked away from it all and chose an unadorned, but ultimately spiritually fulfilling path. And he never looked back.

I hope that Paul’s prayer below resonates with you as well. We at Franciscan Media love sharing these spiritual resources with you and want to continue to do so for many years to come. To help us in these efforts, we humbly ask you to consider a gift to Franciscan Media today.

May St. Francis’ simple, sincere example of faith inspire you today!

Peace,

Daniel Imwalle

Managing Editor

Saint of the Day for October 8: John Leonardi

(1541 – October 9, 1609)

Listen to Saint John Leonardi’s Story Here

“I am only one person! Why should I do anything? What good would it do?” Today, as in any age, people seem plagued with the dilemma of getting involved. In his own way, John Leonardi answered these questions. He chose to become a priest.

After his ordination, Fr. Leonardi became very active in the works of the ministry, especially in hospitals and prisons. The example and dedication of his work attracted several young laymen who began to assist him. They later became priests themselves.

John lived after the Protestant Reformation and the Council of Trent. He and his followers projected a new congregation of diocesan priests. For some reason the plan, which was ultimately approved, provoked great political opposition. John was exiled from his home town of Lucca, Italy, for almost the entire remainder of his life. He received encouragement and help from Saint Philip Neri, who gave him his lodgings—along with the care of his cat!

In 1579, John formed the Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, and published a compendium of Christian doctrine that remained in use until the 19th century.

Father Leonardi and his priests became a great power for good in Italy, and their congregation was confirmed by Pope Clement in 1595. John died at the age of 68 from a disease caught when tending those stricken by the plague.

By the deliberate policy of the founder, the Clerks Regular of the Mother of God have never had more than 15 churches, and today form only a very small congregation. The liturgical feast of Saint John Leonardi is celebrated on October 9.

Reflection

What can one person do? The answer is plenty! In the life of each saint, one thing stands clear: God and one person are a majority! What one individual, following God’s will and plan for his or her life, can do is more than our mind could ever hope for or imagine. Each of us, like John Leonardi, has a mission to fulfill in God’s plan for the world. Each one of us is unique and has been given talent to use for the service of our brothers and sisters for the building up of God’s kingdom.

Saint John Leonardi is the Patron Saint of:

Pharmacists

Celebrate the 10th anniversary of this inspirational classic

by Richard Rohr!

Delve into the teachings of

Eager to Love and the new

companion guide!

This newsletter is not free to produce! Please consider making a donation to help us in our efforts to share God's love in the spirit of St. Francis.