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LXVII
BROTHER GILES SAYING VIRGIN BEFORE THE BIRTH, VIRGIN IN THE BIRTH, AND VIRGIN AFTER THE BIRTH CAUSES THREE LILIES TO APPEARa
1 At one time during Brother Giles's lifetime there was a great Master of the Order of Preachers who for many years endured the greatest doubt about the virginity of the Mother of Jesus Christ. For it seemed to him that it was impossible for her to be both mother and virgin. Yet, as truly a man full of faith, he grieved over such a doubt as this, and he wished that some inspired man would free him from it. Hearing that Brother Giles was an illustrious man, he went to him.
3 The holy Brother Giles, knowing in spirit that he was coming, what his purpose was, and the battle he was enduring, went out to meet him. Before he reached the Friar Preacher, he struck the ground with his staff which he carried in his hand, and said: "O Friar Preacher, a virgin before the birth." And immediately a very beautiful lily sprang up where Giles struck the ground with his staff. Striking the ground a second time, he said: "O Friar Preacher, a virgin during the birth!" And another lily sprang up. Striking the ground a third time, he said: "O Friar Preacher, a virgin after the birth!" And immediately a third lily sprang up. After this, Giles fled.
6 That Friar Preacher was entirely freed from the temptation, and from then on he always had a great devotion towards the holy Brother Giles.
To the praise and glory of our Lord Jesus Christ,
Who is blessed forever. Rom 1:25
Amen.
LXVIII
THE WONDERFUL ADVICE BROTHER GILES GAVE BROTHER JAMES OF MASSAb
1 Brother James of Massa was a holy and very devout lay brother who lived at the time of Saint Clare and of many of the companions of Saint Francis. Since he possessed the gift of ecstasy and wishing to get Brother Giles's advice, he asked Giles to counsel him on how he should conduct himself while enjoying this gift. Brother Giles responded: "Neither add nor subtract; and flee from crowds as much as you can." Brother James said: "What are you saying? Explain it to me, Reverend Father." Brother Giles replied: "When the mind is
- There is a parallel between this chapter and ChrXXIVG 90.
- There is a parallel between this chapter and ChrXXIVG 91-2.