This year I need to do it.
St. Francis was famous for observing the fast in preparation for Michaelmas or the feast of St. Michael, September 29. During the lent, on September 17, Francis received the stigmata at the solitude on Mt. Alvernia. I think the Franciscans once observed the lent, as was the custom for the devout during medieval times - not sure if it is done today.
The lent begins today, the feast of the Assumption. It seems appropriate to observe it this centenary year of Fatima, especially since it is believed St. Michael was the angel who appeared to prepare the children for Our Lady's apparitions, and was the angel with the sword in the vision of the secret.
What are the "rules" for this little lent? I do the monastic fast every year, and this would extend it even longer! Yikes!
ReplyDeleteNot sure what the rules are. Fasting and alms I guess.
DeleteThere are Franciscans who still keep the fast; I have met them.
ReplyDeleteI like that - good to hear.
DeleteTwo years
ReplyDeletebefore he gave his spirit back to heaven,
after many and varied labors,
he was led apart by divine providence
to a high place
which is called Mount La Verna.
When according to his usual custom
he had begun to fast there for forty days
in honor of St. Michael the Archangel,
he experienced more abundantly than usual
an overflow of the sweetness of heavenly contemplation
he burned with a stronger flame
of heavenly desires,
and he began to experience more fully
the gifts of heavenly grace.
(St. Bonaventure, Major Legend, Chapter 13, The Sacred Stigmata)