St. Francis of Assisi

Born: 1181
Died: October 3, 1226
Canonized: July 16, 1228

Early Life

Born Giovanni di Pietro di Bernardone in Assisi, Italy, Francis was the son of a wealthy cloth merchant. In his youth, he lived a carefree life and dreamed of becoming a knight.

Conversion

After experiencing visions and a profound spiritual awakening, Francis renounced his wealthy lifestyle. He famously stripped naked in the town square, returning his clothes to his father, and dedicated his life to serving God and the poor.

Founding the Franciscans

Francis gathered followers who shared his vision of living in poverty and serving others. In 1209, Pope Innocent III approved his simple rule, and the Franciscan order was born.

Love for Creation

St. Francis had a deep love for all of God's creation. He preached to birds, tamed a wolf, and saw all creatures as his brothers and sisters. This earned him the title of patron saint of animals and the environment.

The Stigmata

In 1224, while praying on Mount La Verna, Francis received the stigmata - the wounds of Christ appeared on his hands, feet, and side. He was the first recorded person to receive this mystical gift.

Legacy

St. Francis revolutionized Christian spirituality with his emphasis on poverty, humility, and care for creation. His influence extends far beyond the Catholic Church, inspiring people of all faiths to live more simply and compassionately.

"Lord, make me an instrument of your peace." - Prayer of St. Francis