This book is a proclamation of the Good News of God’s love and the beauty and dignity of the human person created in his image. It gently and sensitively leads us on a journey of exploration into this wonderful mystery. Simple in its presentation but profound in its message, the challenge of love and the mystery of the human heart are captured in a creative and challenging way that has the potential to change your life forever.

Love is the heartbeat on every page and, as the title suggests, this is An Affair of the Heart as the reader is drawn not only into his or her own heart but also into the very heart of God. Jesus of Nazareth and Francis of Assisi invite you to make the journey of a lifetime – the journey into that mysterious depth where you will discover a hidden treasure that is waiting to be unearthed, accepted, enjoyed and shared.

Biblical themes are explored from a Franciscan perspective and it is this vision that gives originality and freshness to familiar concepts with relevance that is timely for twenty-first century needs and aspirations.

St Francis of Assisi learned that no one else could make this journey for you. That is why his words and his example permeate every chapter. Francis made the long and arduous journey into his own heart. There he experienced the uniqueness of his own person and his own call and vocation in life. Recognizing his own uniqueness empowered him to recognize the uniqueness and goodness within every person and with wonder and joy he embraced everyone as brother and sister. And Francis says to you what he said to his brothers and sisters so many years ago: “I have done what was mine to do, may Christ teach you what is yours to do.” This book will point the way but only you can make the journey.

Patricia Jordan is a Franciscan Sister Minoress. Graduating from Liverpool University with a B.Ed. (Hons.), she has taught Religious Education and English at secondary school level, and has both an MA (from the Franciscan Institute, St Bonaventure University) and a Ph.D. in Franciscan Studies. Sr Patricia is currently Novice Director and Formation Director for her Congregation and has served as a General Councillor for twelve years. She is Director of The Portiuncula, House of Franciscan Prayer and Solitude, in Derbyshire.