Francis of Assisi

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Philip Fruytiers - St. Francis of Assisi

Francis of Assisi (Italian: Francesco d'Assisi; born Giovanni di Pietro di Bernardone; 1181/1182 – 3 October 1226), was an Italian Catholic friar, deacon, and mystic. He founded the men's Order of Friars Minor, the women’s Order of Saint Clare, the Third Order of Saint Francis, and the Custody of the Holy Land. Francis is one of the most venerated religious figures in Christianity.

Early Life

Francis was born in Assisi, Umbria, in 1181 or 1182, to Pietro di Bernardone, a prosperous silk merchant, and his wife Pica Bourlemont. Francis grew up in a wealthy family and enjoyed a lavish lifestyle during his youth. His early education was provided by the priests of San Giorgio in Assisi. Despite his family's wealth, Francis became disillusioned with the materialistic world at a young age.

Conversion and Ministry

The turning point in Francis's life came after he participated in a military expedition against Perugia, was taken prisoner, and held captive for a year. It was during this time that he reportedly began to receive visions from God, leading to a deep spiritual awakening. After his release, Francis returned to Assisi, where he spent time in prayer, seeking God's direction for his life. He began to preach repentance and to care for the poor.

In 1209, Francis felt called to live in poverty and to preach the Gospel. He started to wear simple clothes, and he began to preach to people about returning to God and the importance of peace. His charismatic preaching attracted followers, and he established the Order of Friars Minor, commonly known as the Franciscans.

Legacy

Francis's devotion to simplicity and his care for the poor and sick made him a revered figure. He is known for his love of nature and animals, which is commemorated by the Catholic Church each year on the Feast of Saint Francis, October 4, with the blessing of the animals.

Francis is also credited with the creation of the first Nativity scene to celebrate Christmas, emphasizing the humility of Jesus' birth. His writings and the rules he established for his order emphasized living in poverty to be closer to God, a principle that deeply influenced Christian thought.

Francis received the stigmata in 1224, making him the first recorded person to bear the wounds of Christ's Passion. He died on 3 October 1226, at the age of 44, in Assisi, and was canonized as a saint by Pope Gregory IX in 1228.

Influence

Saint Francis's influence extends beyond the Catholic Church. He is admired by people of various faiths for his dedication to poverty, peace, and care for creation. His life and teachings have inspired countless people, including leaders and movements, to work for peace and environmental stewardship.

See Also

• Order of Friars Minor
• Order of Saint Clare
• Third Order of Saint Francis
• Custody of the Holy Land