A Franciscan Blessing

A Franciscan Blessing

Several people asked me about a copy of the “Franciscan Blessing” that I used to close the service on February 10, 2019. As I stated, I am not sure of the origin of the blessing, nor do I know why it is especially considered “Franciscan.” But, it is a call for us to live into our faith. I share it below:

A Franciscan Blessing

May God bless you with discomfort at easy answers, half truths, and superficial relationships, so that you may live deep within your heart. Amen.

May God bless you with anger at injustice, oppression, and exploitation of people, so that you may work for justice, freedom and peace. Amen.

May God bless you with tears to shed for those who suffer from pain, rejection, starvation and war, so that you may reach out your hand to comfort them and to turn their pain into joy. Amen.

May God bless you with enough foolishness to believe that you can make a difference in this world, so that by the grace of God you can do what others claim cannot be done. Amen.

And the Blessing of God, who Creates, Redeems and Sanctifies, be upon you and all you love and pray for this day, and forever more. Amen.