Franciscans of Halifax Language selection: Studying to understand... Home Spirituality Links Pictures Where to find us Who we are Our History Contemplative Life Active Life Franciscan Life Contact The Apostle says, "the letter killeth, but the spirit quickeneth.” They are killed by the letter who seek only to know the words that they may be esteemed more learned among others and that they may acquire great riches to leave to their relations and friends. And those religious are killed by the letter who will not follow the spirit of the Holy Scriptures, but who seek rather to know the words only and to interpret them to others. And they are quickened by the spirit of the Holy Scriptures who do not interpret materially every text they know or wish to know, but who by word and example give them back to God from whom is all good. (Admonitions of St. Francis, Admonition Nr. 7) God and creation are mysteries, that the human mind always has tried to understand. Understanding these mysteries comes only with the gift of Faith. Faith, and Divine Revelation in Scripture and in the person of Jesus Christ are complete gifts in themselves, and with them it is possible to establish a relationship with creation and the Creator. One of the reasons why we study is so that we are apprehend the tools to communicate this gift of faith to our offspring. Therefore studying does not serve only selfish purposes, but most of all is a service for the neighbour. We, as religious, are not only called to be a witness to Christ and his testimony, but also to serve as teachers and guides in matters of the world and of the spirit. It is a big responsibility, as we do not want to fail God in this essential task of our faith: the transmission of the fire that we have within.... The mystery of God’s creation finds its fulfillment in the incarnation of Jesus Christ... ...and crowned by His death on the Cross...