“It’s a very powerful play … by the end of it I almost wanted to cry,” a Franciscan student remarked after watching the Life of Saint Francis play put on for Homecoming Weekend. 

On the afternoon of Sep. 27, a group of students put on a production called, “The Celebration of the Life of Saint Francis.” It began at Christ the King Chapel Courtyard and ended in front of the Portiuncula Chapel. 

“We incorporated a walk-through play,” explained senior Peter Lim, who acted the part of a leper and one of the brothers.  

The two narrators described the life of Saint Francis, while eight students reenacted the events. Students Adam Brugh and Mary Kornish played Saints Francis and Clare. 

The play was divided into seven stations across the campus, each representing a major event in Saint Francis’s life. The play was meant to be a spiritual and reflective journey with each station ending with a brief reflection and prayer. 

“I thought it was very good … very well put together,” remarked Susanna Korson, a junior. 

Lim further explained that the intention of the play was for the audience to see “How the… life of Saint Francis … has impacted our community here at Franciscan University.” The play “Has the main message of humility and joy,” he added.  

The last station of the play ended with a reflection on the words of Saint Francis, when he said, “I have done what was mind to do. May Christ teach you what is yours.” 

“It’s comforting and it’s inspiring,” said a junior Franciscan student, in regard to Saint Francis’s words. “[This is] something I’ve been reflecting on recently … I want to follow Francis in such a way.”