What in the world do you and I have to learn from a 13th-century Italian saint? Quite a lot, actually. Though he lived an austere life hundreds of years ago, Francis of Assisi still has a profound impact on the world today.
In a recent interview, Ian Cron and I discuss these things, his recently rereleased novel Chasing Francis, and why stories are powerful tools in changing lives — especially our own.
We talk about faith, storytelling, and what it takes to make your life to really matter.
I hope you enjoy it.
Listen to the interview
[audio:https://traffic.libsyn.com/jeffgoins/Ian_Cron.mp3]Listen in a new window | Download
About Ian
Ian Morgan Cron is an author, speaker, Episcopal priest, psychotherapist, and retreat guide. He is one of my favorite contemporary writers and was kind enough to endorse two of my books (Wrecked and The In-Between).
Ian is a thoughtful, contemplative soul with an affinity for art and beauty. In addition to authoring Chasing Francis, he has written a spiritual memoir called, Jesus, My Father, the CIA, and Me, which was chosen as a featured title in the Barnes & Noble “Discover Great New Writers” program.
He's also one of the smartest guys I know.
When he's not speaking at events or leading retreats, Ian divides his time between living in Tennessee and Vermont with his wife and three children.
If you're not following him, you really should be.
Interview highlights
In this interview, Ian and I discuss:
- How we lose faith as we grow up and what we must do to reclaim it
- The story of Ian discovering St. Francis (and how it changed his life)
- Why fiction is often better for telling the truth than nonfiction
- How storytelling liberates the storyteller (as well as the audience)
- Why total resolution rarely comes in most stories — and in most lives
- And much more
After you listen to the interview, check out Chasing Francis and Chesterton's St. Francis of Assisi (which inspired Ian's book) on Amazon (affiliate links). Also, be sure to visit Ian on his blog.
What do you know about St. Francis? How does his example inspire you today? Share in the comments.
