the Christ-like nature of Saint Francis Assisi: with regard to evangelical counsels, particular reference poverty

Saint Francis of Assisi served Christ perfectly through the three vows of poverty, obedience and chastity. To his contemporaries, Francis appeared as a unique example of a person who had radically embraced God's offer of salvation. He was an 'alter Christus' (Latin for 'another Christ' or 'a second Christ'). This phrase signifies that, in following Christ, Francis became like his Lord as no other. His life was the Gospel put into practice. The phrase 'Vita mea Evangelium Domini!' is also used in reference to Saint Francis, meaning 'My life, the Gospel of the Lord!' The poverty of St Francis, as presented in this work, does not contradict wealth or the possession of material and spiritual goods; rather, it is a recommendation for attaining perfect bliss and true freedom, which (inner and outer) wealth cannot bring about.