Patronage: Animals, ecology, peace, and Italy.
Founder of the Franciscan Order
St. Francis of Assisi, born Giovanni di Pietro di Bernardone in Italy, was a man who left behind wealth and comfort to follow Christ in radical poverty. After a profound conversion, he dedicated his life to living the Gospel — preaching peace, caring for the poor, and embracing all creation as his brothers and sisters.
He founded the Order of Friars Minor (Franciscans), inspiring countless men and women to live lives of humility, simplicity, and love for all of God’s creatures. St. Francis also received the stigmata, the wounds of Christ, as a sign of his deep union with the Lord’s Passion.
He is known for his great love of nature, his joyful spirit, and the famous “Canticle of the Sun.”
Prayer
St. Francis of Assisi, lover of God’s creation, help us to live simply, to bring peace where there is hatred, and to see the face of Christ in all people. Amen.
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