Abstract:
To speak of the heart is to speak a universal language. After a brief examination of
poetry, prose, art and music, we discuss and analyse the word heart in its universal
applicability within different religions, eras, cultures and creeds. Our particular focus is
then centred in Sacred Scripture where we find the most comprehensive understanding
of the word heart. Tracing the depth and richness of its meaning throughout the
Scripture texts, we are faced with the human paradox of good and evil, both of which
proceed from the mysterious realm of the heart where freedom and grace engage us in
ways that are at times beyond our comprehension.
Examining the place of the desert in the process of forming the heart - which we
understand to be the vital, inner core of a person - we highlight the struggle involved in
this process, suggesting as the desert Fathers have before us, that the heart itself is at
times a battlefield. Rooting ourselves in the Sacred Scriptures and in continuity with
the Christian tradition, we introduce St. Francis of Assisi.
Analysing and interpreting St. Francis' journey into his own heart and to the heart of
others, leads us to a consideration of the part the desert plays in this journey. This
analysis is directly related to the active-contemplative question that has been the
subject of debate ever since the time of Jesus in his encounter with Martha and Mary.
Dualistic language and thinking suggests that the different dimensions of life stand in
opposition, leading to an either/or situation rather than an acceptance of a more
integrated both/and approach.
In an effort to avoid dualism and embrace paradox, we facilitate the journey of the heart
towards wholeness and integration, combining theory and practice by bringing the fruit
of this research to completion in The Portiuncula, a centre for Franciscan prayer and
solitude, a new expression of our Third Order Regular Franciscan charism. Developing
an innovative approach to St. Francis Rule for Hermitages, we discuss the significance
of this, not only for members of the Franciscan family but for every person on the
spiritual quest and the journey of the heart.
After the example of St. Francis of Assisi, we have tried to capture the spirit of his
following in the footsteps of the Word made flesh, Jesus Christ. In grappling with the
implications of a literal following of Jesus Christ, and the challenges this poses for
every individual in his or her uniqueness, we enter the realm of mystery, paradox,
freedom and grace: the heart.
Presenting a spirituality of the heart in the context of the biblical understanding of
"heart", "desert", and "conversion", in the context of the Franciscan eremitical tradition,
we continue the universal quest for the fullness of love which is mysteriously contained
in the twofold but unified experience of contemplation and compassion.
