Pope Francis envisioned a poor church detached from the material world, which reaches out to the poor and vulnerable. Francis of Assisi and Pope Francis seek to teach people that detachment from material assets cultivates solidarity with those living in poverty and other vulnerable populations. Vatican II called all people to live a life of holiness. This mentality led some to question the relevance of voluntary poverty embraced by members of religious communities in the Catholic and Eastern Orthodox church. However, such voluntary detachment communicates to a popular culture that people who live simply and detach themselves from the desire for material assets can and do lead a life of fulfillment that can change their lives and the lives of others. Poverty in spirit means to, first, trust in God’s providence.4
Further the current pope, taking the name of Francis, advocates people to consider life beyond their personal experience. Countering the conveyance of “phoniness” coming from many public figures, he communicates a sense of integrity and goodwill. He communicates this example by choosing a modest lifestyle while sharing his concern for global inequality and the need to care for the environment.5 For example, Pope Francis, when elected, chose to continue living in the Vatican guest house instead of relocating to the Papal Apartments on the third floor of the Apostolic Palace.6
Teachings From Francis
Through voluntary poverty of Francis, he opposed the abuse coming from church leaders and corruption among the wealthy economic classes. The opposition attracted numerous followers. His first female follower, known as Clare, began a religious community for women.5 A movement was later started allowing lay people to continue to live and work in the world while still following the Franciscan spirituality. This spiritual movement continues to thrive within Catholic religious circles, while receiving respect throughout the entire Christian family. Francis teaches a detachment from earthly wealth although a state of life or personal circumstances may not permit taking the radical step of leaving the world.
Read more Theology Thursday and explore theology and ministry programs offered by GCU’s College of Theology today.
1 Whelan, W. (2022). Franciscans. Salem Press Encyclopedia. Retrieved June 13, 2023.
2 Appelbaum, P. (2009). St. Francis in the Nineteenth Century. American Society of Church History, 2009 Church History (78)4, 792-813. Retrieved on June 13, 2023. Doi 10.1017/S0009640709990527
3 Viviers, H. (2014). The Second Christ, Saint Francis of Assisi and ecological consciousness. Verbum et Ecclesia, 35 (1) 1-9.
4 Mansford CFR, E. (2014). Love Does Silly Things: The Prophetic Power of the Vow of Poverty 2014 Series on the Vows of Consecrated Life. Religious Life Review.
5 Wilson, C. (2018). A Man of His Word Presents a Pope for All People. St. Louis Post-Dispatch (MO). Retrieved on June 13, 2023.
6 Wooden, C. (n.d.). Pope Francis to Live in Guesthouse. The Catholic Herald. Retrieved on June 13, 2023.
Approved by faculty of the College of Theology on July 14, 2023.
