St. Francis of Assisi

Summary:

St. Francis of Assisi is the founder of the Franciscan Order, known for his radical poverty, love of creation, and joyful imitation of Christ. His life calls all people to simplicity, humility, and total trust in God.

Bio:

  • Born: 1181 or 1182, Assisi, Italy

  • Died: October 3, 1226, Assisi, Italy

  • Feast Day: October 4

  • Canonization: July 16, 1228

  • Patronage: Animals · Ecology · Italy · Merchants · the Poor

Overview:

St. Francis of Assisi was born into wealth but chose a life of radical poverty after encountering Christ in a profound way. Renouncing his former life, he embraced simplicity and devoted himself completely to God.

Francis lived the Gospel literally, caring for the poor, preaching repentance, and seeing all of creation as a reflection of God’s glory. His joy, humility, and love drew many to follow him, leading to the founding of the Franciscan Order.

Marked with the stigmata near the end of his life, Francis became a living image of Christ crucified. His life continues to inspire a return to simplicity, joy, and deep trust in God.

“Start by doing what is necessary, then what is possible, and suddenly you are doing the impossible.”

St. Francis

Life Story:

Early Life
Francis was born into a wealthy family in Assisi and lived a carefree life, seeking honor and success.

Conversion
After illness and spiritual struggle, Francis encountered Christ, particularly through serving the poor and hearing the call to “rebuild my Church.”

Renunciation of Wealth
Francis publicly renounced his family’s wealth, embracing a life of poverty and dependence on God.

Life of Poverty and Preaching
Francis preached repentance, lived simply, and gathered followers who desired to live the Gospel fully.

Stigmata
Near the end of his life, Francis received the stigmata, bearing the wounds of Christ in his body.

Legacy
Francis founded the Franciscan Order and remains a model of joyful poverty, humility, and love for all creation.

Virtues:

  • Poverty: Radical detachment from worldly goods

  • Humility: Total dependence on God

  • Joy: Rejoicing in all circumstances

  • Charity: Love for the poor and all creation

  • Simplicity: Living the Gospel fully

Get Involved:

  • Simplify: Let go of unnecessary attachments

  • Serve: Care for the poor and vulnerable

  • Rejoice: Find joy in daily life

  • Respect: Honor creation as God’s gift

  • Follow: Live the Gospel concretely