About St. Francis of Assisi
1181-1226
Feast Day October 4

The world's most beloved medieval saint, Francesco Bernardone was born about 1181 to affluent parents in Assisi, Italy. Handsome, gregarious and fun-loving, he became a leader among the town's young noblemen. However, he underwent a profound spiritual crisis after serving in battle against the city of Perugia and being held prisoner there for over a year. Upon his release, after recovering from terrible illness, he divested himself of his privileged position to adopt the life of a mendicant.

Through the most profound personal austerities and acts of charity, Francis substantially helped to restore the gospel foundation of the Church at a critical time in its history. His renowned dialogues with wild animals, including the infamous wolf of Gubbio, have rendered him the patron saint of the environment to the modern mind. However, this deep reverence for all creation was only part of an absolute discipleship defined by charity, simplicity, penance and heroic works for peace undertaken in a dangerous political climate. His gift for preaching and his courage in taking literally Jesus' admonition that we must love one another produced thousands of followers in his lifetime, and Franciscan orders today remain the largest in membership. St. Francis died at the age of 44 or 45, having spent much of his last years isolated in mystic contemplation and receiving the holy stigmata. He was canonized two years later. The Canticle of Brother Sun is one of his most well-known prayers, exemplifying his perception that everything created by God exists as our natural brother or sister.