On February 16, 2023, Friar Luiz Fernando LIMA RANGEL defended his doctoral dissertation in systematic theology entitled: “Lady Poverty and Happy Sobriety – Theological Work on the Spirituality of St. Francis of Assisi and the Thought of Pope Francis.” The defense took place at the Pontifical Catholic University in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
The Supervising Professor for Friar Luiz Fernando was Professor Maria Tereza DE FREITAS. The theme of Lady Poverty, as embraced by St. Francis, and the theme of happy sobriety, as mentioned in Pope Francis’ Encyclical Laudato Si’, were developed by analyzing Franciscan spirituality and its medieval origins, the Franciscan Rule and an extensive amount of material taken from papal documents.
The main objective of the dissertation was to highlight the important legacy left by St. Francis, in order to deepen our understanding of evangelical poverty and appreciate its relevance today. This study showed that evangelical poverty is reflected in the question of the acquisition of goods and in the pastoral work carried out in various places around the world where the Franciscan presence can be seen in action. Furthermore, the relationship between the evangelical poverty lived by St. Francis and the teachings of Pope Francis is important. The various documents and messages published by the Pope reflect his direction towards a poor Church that is attentive to the most needy, following the design that comes from Jesus Christ. This design is found in particular in Laudato Si’, which speaks of socio-environmental concerns and the response of human beings who can achieve the satisfaction of a balanced and healthy life by taking care of everything around them and living a life of happy sobriety.
The Provincial Custody of the Immaculate Conception of the B.V.M. in Brazil rejoices in the work and dedication of Friar Luiz Fernando. May God bless his Franciscan mission and vocation in putting knowledge and study into practice.
Friar Willian Gomes MENDONÇA, Custodial Secretary
