Francis renounces his worldly goods and submits to the authority of the Bishop of Assisi
By the example of Christ
Francis decided in turning fully to the Church, that he needed to imitate Christ as closely as possible. To do this he returned his clothing to his father and kneeling with overwhelming humility in front of the Guido, Bishop of Assisi, he gives himself wholly to the care of the Church.
In this depiction we see Giovanni Bernardone’s parents, Peter and Pica, standing near their son, as well as a larger group around the bishop. There he knelt, completely naked, which created quite the stir within Assisi. This attracted other young men who were searching for a new way to emulate the life of Christ through religious life.
This beautiful scene of Francis’ complete abandonment of worldly possessions and complete submission to Lady Poverty shows his resolve for imitating the life of Christ and following his word. This event followed an intense period of self-examination, working to discern what the next steps were in Francis’ move towards an intense relationship with the Church.
According to many biographical accounts of Francis his nudity was immediately covered up by the bishop’s mantle. Even during the Middle Ages, nudity was an intimate thing. However, it also offers a wonderful image of Francis total turn towards God. From that moment on he only wore the grey tunic that Franciscans still wear today.
What can we learn?
Everyone’s relationship to Christ and the Church is unique. We each have a different vocation, and a different path to that vocation. For Francis, this decision was one made after long hard deliberation with himself and Christ. Only through self-examination can we discern God’s plan.
My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and do it. (Luke 8:21)
Trust in the LORD, and do good; so you will dwell in the land, and enjoy security. Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart. (Psalm 37:3-4)