Frank M. Rega shows that far from being a pacifist, St. Francis not only supported the Fifth Crusade, but also personally accompanied the Crusaders in order to convert the Muslims. Rega describes in stunning detail this historic meeting between St. Francis and Sultan al-Kamil and that Francis' goal was the conversion of the Muslims, and not simply 'dialoging;' as an end in itself.
While the focus of the author is this encounter, the book also includes a comprehensive biography of this great saint. Read how St. Clare of Assisi left her aristocratic world to become St. Francis' follower, how St. Francis originated the Christmas manger, and about the moment he received the stigmata.
A fascinating study of the encounters between on of the Church's greatest and most daringly imaginative saints, and some of the most inveterate enemies Christendom had ever known. This book is full of lessons for contemporary Christians engaged in efforts at 'dialogue' with Muslims, in whatever form those 'dialogues' take. --Robert Spencer
This is a rare and daring approach to the life of St. Francis and one that is so necessary in our world at this time. --Fr. Angelus Shaughnessy, O.F.M. Cap.
