About St. Francis of Assisi
St. Francis of Assisi was a 12th-13th century Italian saint who radically transformed Christian spirituality through his dedication to poverty, love of nature, and imitation of Christ. Born into a wealthy merchant family in 1181, he lived a carefree youth until a series of experiences, including imprisonment during war and an encounter with a leper, led to his dramatic conversion. After publicly renouncing his inheritance by stripping off his clothes in front of the bishop, he embraced radical poverty and began preaching repentance in the streets. He attracted followers who became the Franciscan Order, dedicated to living the Gospel literally through poverty, joy, and service. Francis received the stigmata (the wounds of Christ) while praying on Mount La Verna, becoming the first recorded person to bear these marks. His love for God’s creation led him to preach to birds, tame a wolf threatening the town of Gubbio, and compose the “Canticle of the Sun,” praising God through elements of nature. He even traveled to Egypt during the Crusades to dialogue peacefully with the Sultan. Despite failing health and near blindness in his later years, he maintained his joyful spirit until his death in 1226. His revolutionary approach to Christian life, emphasizing simplicity, care for creation, and peace, continues to resonate strongly in modern times, making him one of the most beloved and relevant saints today.
Prayers & Devotions
