Saint Francis of Assisi

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Saint Francis of Assisi (born Giovanni di Pietro di Bernardone; 1181/1182 – October 3, 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, in the Umbria region of Italy in 1181 or 1182. His father, Pietro di Bernardone, was a wealthy silk merchant, and his mother, Pica de Bourlemont, came from a noble family from Provence, France. Francis grew up in a wealthy family and enjoyed a carefree youth. However, his life changed after he participated in a military expedition against Perugia, was taken as a prisoner of war, and later suffered a serious illness.

Conversion and Religious Life

After his release and recovery, Francis experienced a profound spiritual transformation. He began to preach the importance of poverty and humility. In 1209, he founded the Order of Friars Minor, commonly known as the Franciscans. His order was approved by Pope Innocent III in 1210. Francis' approach to Christianity emphasized living in simplicity and preaching to all, including animals, which led to his patronage of animals and the environment.

Stigmata and Later Life

In 1224, Francis reportedly received the stigmata during a religious retreat on Mount La Verna, making him the first recorded person to bear the wounds of Christ's Passion. He died on October 3, 1226, and was canonized by Pope Gregory IX on July 16, 1228. His final resting place is the Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi.

Legacy

Francis' legacy includes his influence on the Catholic Church's approach to poverty and charity, as well as his role in promoting peace and respect for nature. October 4, his feast day, is celebrated as a day of prayer for animals and the environment in many countries.

See Also

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