St. Francis of Assisi
"While you are proclaiming peace with your lips, be careful to have it even more fully in your heart." -St. Francis of Assisi
St. Francis of Assisi - October 4
St. Francis of Assisi is one of the most well-known and beloved saints in the Catholic Church, celebrated for his profound humility, love for nature, and devotion to Christ’s message of peace and poverty. Born in 1181 (or 1182) in the town of Assisi, Italy, Francis grew up in a wealthy merchant family, enjoying a life of privilege and comfort. Yet, his encounter with the poor and a series of spiritual experiences led him to embrace a radically different path—one that continues to inspire and challenge Catholics today.
A Radical Conversion
In his youth, Francis was known for his love of pleasure and adventure. He dreamed of becoming a knight, but God had other plans. After a series of illnesses and a stint as a prisoner of war, Francis began to question the purpose of his life. The turning point came when he encountered a beggar and felt a strong urge to give away all he had. This marked the beginning of his transformation.
One day, while praying in the dilapidated church of San Damiano, Francis heard Christ speak to him from the crucifix: “Francis, rebuild my Church, which, as you can see, is falling into ruin.” Taking these words literally, Francis set out to repair local churches stone by stone. Over time, he realized that his mission was not just to repair physical buildings but to renew the Church itself through a life of radical simplicity, humility, and devotion to Christ.
Embracing Poverty and Simplicity
Francis renounced his wealth, giving up everything to live as a poor man dependent solely on God’s providence. He donned a simple tunic, tied with a rope, and began preaching the Gospel with joy and fervor. His message was clear and straightforward: to live according to the teachings of Jesus Christ, loving God above all things and caring for the poor and marginalized.
In 1209, Francis founded the Order of Friars Minor (commonly known as the Franciscans). His way of life attracted followers who were captivated by his joyful spirit, deep humility, and love for all creation. Together, they embraced a life of poverty, fraternity, and service to others, living as witnesses of the Gospel in its purest form.
Love for Creation and the Canticle of the Sun
St. Francis had a profound sense of kinship with all of God’s creation. He saw the beauty of God reflected in every aspect of the natural world, referring to the sun, moon, animals, and even death as his “brothers” and “sisters.” This deep connection is beautifully expressed in his Canticle of the Sun, one of the first known pieces of literature written in the Italian language. The canticle praises God for “Brother Sun,” “Sister Moon,” and all creatures, celebrating the unity of creation.
His love for creation has made him the patron saint of ecology, and his feast day, October 4th, is often marked by blessings of animals and environmental initiatives.
A Life of Peace and Reconciliation
St. Francis’ life was marked by a profound sense of peace and reconciliation. He sought to bring healing wherever there was division, reaching out even to Muslims during the Crusades in a gesture of dialogue and mutual respect. His famous prayer, “Lord, make me an instrument of your peace,” reflects his desire to be a channel of God’s love and mercy in a divided world.
The Stigmata and Final Years
In the final years of his life, Francis received the stigmata, the wounds of Christ’s Passion, as a sign of his deep union with Jesus’ suffering. His health declined rapidly, but his spirit remained joyful and at peace. On October 3, 1226, he passed away, singing praises to God until his last breath.
Legacy and Inspiration
St. Francis of Assisi’s legacy is a reminder to Catholics that true discipleship requires radical trust in God, humility, and a deep love for all people and creation. His life calls us to look beyond material wealth and power, to serve the poor, and to embrace simplicity and joy in living the Gospel. He invites us to rediscover the beauty of God’s creation and to become instruments of peace in a troubled world.
Through his example, St. Francis continues to inspire Catholics to live out the values of the Gospel with authenticity and joy, echoing his timeless message: “Preach the Gospel at all times, and when necessary, use words.”