The Seraphic Doctor

God seldom accomplishes a great work through only one person. In establishing the Franciscan Order, Saint Francis had help not only from his many companions during his life, but from holy souls who came after him, passing on and developing his spirituality. Among these, one crucial figure is Saint Bonaventure (1221–1274), “the Seraphic Doctor,” whose feast we celebrate on July 15.

Encounter with Saint Francis

Bonaventure, called Giovanni or John at his baptism, was only five years old when Saint Francis died. At some point in those few years they shared on earth, Francis apparently healed little Giovanni of a serious illness. One legend has it that Francis remarked, “O good fortune!” or, in Italian, “O buona ventura!” thus giving the child the name by which we know him. In any case, Francis’s intercession made a lasting impression on Buonaventura, as evidenced by remarks in the biography he wrote of his spiritual father: “For I, who remember as though it happened but yesterday how I was snatched from the jaws of death, while yet a child, by his invocation and merits, should fear to be convicted of the sin of ingratitude did I refrain from publishing his praises.”

At twenty-two, Bonaventure entered the Franciscans and went to study at the University of Paris, the great center of learning in medieval Europe. He was a brilliant scholar, going on to teach while earning his doctorate. His extensive theological writings later earned him the title of Doctor of the Church. He also befriended another saintly intellectual at the university, the Dominican Thomas Aquinas.

Healing Divisions

Yet Bonaventure’s life was not merely one of tranquil study. The Franciscans and Dominicans, who were achieving great success in the academic world, were facing a great deal of opposition from other professors who resented these newcomers. Bonaventure took up his pen in defense of the Franciscan way of life, demonstrating its authentic basis in Scripture.

In addition, the rapidly growing Franciscan Order was dealing with questions. Some friars were in favor of their expansion into teaching, scholarship, and other leading roles. Others believed they should keep to the simpler life of wandering preachers, like Francis and his first companions. The disagreements were becoming divisions.

Bonaventure was gifted not only as a teacher and writer but as an administrator. Elected Minister General of the Order at only thirty-six, he guided his brothers on a moderate course. Under his leadership, the divisions were healed; the Franciscans were encouraged to pursue what was good in both the old and the new, always keeping Christ at the center. In this respect, Bonaventure is a fitting patron for our own times, when older traditions and newer ideas are so often pitted against each other. His example demonstrates a better way, listening to each other and building God’s Kingdom together.

Appointed by the Pope

Such a capable, wise, holy man could only attract more notice. In 1273 or 1274, Pope Gregory X appointed him a cardinal; one story tells how Bonaventure was washing dishes when the papal messengers arrived, and finished his chore before accepting the red hat. The same pope summoned him to the Second Council of Lyon, not only to address conflict between the mendicant orders and diocesan clergy, but to help work toward reunion between the Catholic Church and the Greek Orthodox. Having brought about so much clarity and reconciliation in previous conflicts, Bonaventure was a logical choice for such a monumental task.

The new cardinal-friar did accomplish great good at the Council. Much of the hoped-for healing was accomplished. However, the Council was still in progress when Bonaventure unexpectedly died. Some theorized that he was poisoned; those who work for peace always have enemies. But no details were ever verified.

An Intercessor for Our Times

Whatever the cause of his death, we may confidently hope that Bonaventure was able to do far more good from heaven, not only for the Second Council of Lyon, but for all the needs of the Church. 750 years later, he remains a powerful helper for those needs. Through his intercession, may all who want to follow the Lord be united in His truth and the peace of His charity.

Saint Bonaventure, pray for us!