# Prayers of St. Francis and St. Clare from Assisi
*2020-08-18*

> Bill Young reflects on his recent visit to the basilicas of St. Francis and St. Clare in Assisi, shares a Mother Teresa quote, and offers several prayers inspired by the saints.

## Mother Teresa’s Simple Wisdom

Bill begins with a favorite saying of Mother Teresa, which he received from a priest in the Archdiocese of Sydney. The quote reminds us to be kind, honest, and generous even when others are unreasonable, jealous, or ungrateful, because ultimately our actions are between us and God.

## Blessing and Prayer to St. Francis

Bill recites a traditional blessing: “The Lord bless you and keep you… May the Lord grant you peace.” He then offers a prayer to St. Francis, asking the Lord to shine His face upon us, to give us mercy, and to fill us with peace.

## Prayer to St. Clare

Bill invokes St. Clare, praising her as a follower of the Virgin Mary and a mother in the mystical Body of Christ. He asks for her intercession so that we may live in peaceful accord, zeal for our labors, and the joy of communion with one another.

## A Prayer Before the Crucifix

Bill shares a prayer found on a booklet at the Basilica of St. Clare: “Most High, glorious God, cast Your light into the darkness of my heart. Give me right faith, certain hope, perfect charity, and profound humility, that I may carry out Your holy will.” He notes that this prayer was composed during a time of crisis and darkness, reflecting St. Francis’s own desert experience.

## Reflections on Darkness and Light

Bill reflects on how darkness is simply the absence of God’s light. He lists common spiritual struggles—fear, loneliness, lack of direction, disordered love, and selfishness—and explains that true obedience and humility align us with God’s will. He cites Scripture (Matthew 22:37‑39; John 8:12; Romans 12) to illustrate the call to love God, love neighbor, and be transformed by the renewal of our minds.

## Living the Gospel with St. Francis and St. Clare

Bill concludes by urging listeners to follow the example of St. Francis, who rebuilt the Church, and St. Clare, who devoted her life to prayer and contemplation. He encourages us to ask the Lord, “What do you want me to do?” and to respond with faith, hope, love, and humility.

*Our true vocation is to seek God’s light in the darkness, trusting that He will guide us to love and serve Him fully.*