St. Francis of Assisi

Overview

St. Francis of Assisi is one of the most transformative figures in Christian history. Known for his charm, wealth, and adventure, he experienced a profound conversion that led him to embrace poverty as freedom, and creation as a hymn of praise. Founding the Order of Friars Minor, he reshaped medieval Christianity, from a faith of power to a faith of joy and mercy. His life has inspired countless movements for peace, the environment, and renewal of the Church.

Life Story

Early Life
Born Giovanni di Pietro di Bernardone in Assisi, Italy, Francis grew up in wealth and comfort as the son of a cloth merchant. He was popular and generous, known for his carefree nature and dreams of knighthood. After being imprisoned during a military campaign, he began to question his purpose and felt drawn to prayer and solitude.

Ministry and Mission
While praying in a dilapidated chapel, Francis heard Christ speak to him, “Rebuild my Church.” Taking this literally, he began repairing local churches and serving the poor. His radical joy and simplicity attracted followers who became the first Franciscans. Francis emphasized living the Gospel directly, through poverty, peace, and service. He even met with the Sultan of Egypt during the Crusades, seeking understanding rather than conflict.

Legacy
Francis’s love for creation shines in his “Canticle of the Creatures,” where he calls the sun, moon, and animals his brothers and sisters. He received the stigmata near the end of his life, a sign of his union with Christ. Canonized two years after his death, Francis remains a universal symbol of peace, humility, and joy. His influence endures through the Franciscan family and the Church’s call to ecological stewardship.

Get Involved

• Volunteer with an animal rescue.

• Practice “A Day Without Waste” in Francis’s honor

• Join a Franciscan mission or ecological ministry

• Celebrate the Feast of St. Francis with an outdoor blessing of animals