A man of eminent learning and eloquence, and of outstanding
holiness, he was known for his kindness, approachableness, gentleness
and compassion.
-
Pope Gregory X on hearing of the death of Bonaventure
Mary seeks for those who approach her devoutly and with reverence,
for such she loves, nourishes, and adopts as her children.
- Saint Bonaventure
When we pray, the voice of the heart must be heard more than that
proceeding from the mouth.
Saint Bonaventure
Christ is both the way and the door. Christ is the staircase and the
vehicle, like the "throne of mercy over the Ark of the Covenant," and
"the mystery hidden from the ages." A man should turn his full attention
to this throne of mercy, and should gaze at him hanging on the cross,
full of faith, hope, and charity, devoted, full of wonder and joy,
marked by gratitude, and open to praise and jubilation. Then such a man
will make with Christ a "pasch," that is, a passing-over. Through the
branches of the cross he will pass over the Red Sea, leaving Egypt and
entering the desert. There he will taste the hidden manna, and rest with
Christ in the sepulcher, as if he were dead to things outside. He will
experience, as much as is possible for one who is still living, what was
promised to the thief who hung beside Christ: "Today you will be with me
in paradise."
from Journey of the Mind to God by Saint Bonaventure
