This pathway is part of the “front lawn” of our Motherhouse.
It is a powerful, simple, symbol of the words of Jesus, the psalmist, and the story of Saint Francis searching for what path God desired for his life.
In The little Flowers of St Francis we read:
Shortly after his conversion, St Francis was in serious doubt about what he ought to do: whether to dedicate himself solely to prayer, or sometimes to preach: and he greatly desired to know the will of God about this. … So he called Brother Masseo to himself and said “Go to Sister Clare and Brother Sylvester, tell them about me and my search.” Brother Masseo did so and came back with this answer: Both Clare and Sylvester had the same message for Francis: God did not call you … only for yourself but … that through you many may be saved.”
Francis was delighted and setting out with an eager spirit began preaching… Francis even preached to all variety of birds who listened attentively and by their singing and movements showed that Francis gave them great delight. Francis then made the sign of the cross over them and the birds rose into the air and divided themselves into four groups. One group flew east, another west, another south and another north in the form of a cross. This acted as a sign that the followers of Saint Francis, like the birds, are to possess nothing of their own in this world, and entrust their life only to the providence of God as they go throughout the whole world. (adapted from the Little Flowers of St. Francis)
Our motto as Sisters of St Francis of Assisi is
‘Deus Providebit” – “God will provide.”   Please share your reflection.