If someone would ask me to reflect on this question and its answer in the framework of the feast of St. Francis of Assisi on October 4, I would respond by listing these three points on which to reflect:

First, the “poor man of Assisi” knew and practiced his belief in Jesus in a very special way. It was through his deep sense of the beauty of all creatures, which he saw as manifestations of the Incarnation. But he came to this only through extended periods (in some instances months at a time) of quiet contemplation. How can the rest of us reach the systematic knowledge of faith? I will say that through the reading of and deep reflection on the documents of the Second Vatican Council and the Catechism of the Church, which would help us to increase our understanding of the essentials of our faith and to live this Year of Faith in a more intentional way. Reading and reflecting on these documents will enable us to give reason to our hope (1 Peter 3:15) and to improve our attitude towards God’s creation.

Second, while everyone seems to know St. Francis for his love of nature, he included in this special appreciation of God's creation all people, especially the poor. His ministry to the lepers is a manifestation of this deep respect for God's created order, especially to humans in need of a healing touch. St. Francis’ way to approach our brothers and sisters in need is the best example of the relationship between faith and charity. This relationship is explained by Pope Benedict in his letter cited above, as he says, “Faith without charity bears no fruit, while charity without faith would be a sentiment constantly at the mercy of doubt. Faith and charity each require the other, in such a way that each allows the other to set out along its respective path” (14).

Lastly, “Preach the Gospel at all times. Use words if necessary” is a saying that highlights the Franciscan spirit and can help us to clarify our role in this Year of Faith. Simply put, this saying calls us to be Jesus’ witnesses. Regarding this call Pope Benedict says: “What the world is in particular need of today is the credible witness of people enlightened in mind and heart by the word of the Lord and capable of opening the hearts and minds of many to the desire for God and for true life, life without end” (15).

May these three points help us to reflect deeply on our faith in light of the feast of St. Francis of Assisi.