by Brenda Brisch
We were meditating at the impressive and yet stark tomb of St. Frances. It can only be entered by going down, down, down, descending all the 3 levels of the grand basilica. The narrow medieval stone staircase beckons all into the dimly lit crypt. I felt like I was being lowered down into the innermost depths of the cave of my heart. The energy here at the ‘tomba’ is so palpable and strong. The presence of St. Francis and his 4 closest brothers who are also there, invite us to effortlessly plunge into the spacious quietude inside. As I was listening to the continual river of pilgrims whispering prayers, gently shuffling their feet as they circumnavigate the immovable crypt , I had a beautiful experience: these gentle outer sounds were mirroring the soothing inner sounds of thoughts and sensations that were around or above my heart, but were not all all affecting the deep silence radiating there. Everywhere we stop and meditate in Assisi, whether it be in a basilica, garden, convent or in an olive grove, our rich contemplations always bring us home to the heart. The vibrant beauty and the lives of Francis and Claire that walked everywhere we go, make this retreat so unique and special.
3 Comments
Anon Ymous
3/26/2023 03:58:28 am
I came here in 2008. There was electricity in the air in the tomb. I came back with a new spiritual gift that took me years to realize it was imparted in St. Francis' tomb. I am looking for a way to get closer to the tomb and the Franciscans in retreat to see if there's more here than what I was given on that fateful pilgrimage to Italy in 2008. I believe in that moment St. Francis gave me a personal gift and it's been very interesting seeing it slowly unfurl over time. It took me about 5 years to connect the dots back to the pilgrimage and realize the gift was most likely from this encounter with the holy saint.
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AuthorEntries are from our Community of Retreat leaders that provide year round retreats in Assisi, Italy Archives
September 2018
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