St. Francis of Assisi

St. Francis of Assisi (1181–1226) is called the “Poverello,” or “Little Poor Man of Assisi,” and is one of the most beloved saints in all of Christianity. Known for his radical embrace of poverty, humility, and love for all creation, he renewed the Church by living the Gospel with unflinching simplicity and joy. His life of holiness inspired the founding of the Franciscan Order and transformed the spiritual landscape of medieval Europe.

Francis was born Giovanni di Pietro di Bernardone in Assisi, Italy, the son of a wealthy cloth merchant. As a young man, he enjoyed luxury and sought glory as a soldier. But after a period of illness and captivity, he experienced a profound conversion of heart. Hearing the voice of Christ say, “Francis, rebuild my Church,” he renounced his inheritance and began living as a poor beggar, dedicating himself entirely to prayer, service, and preaching repentance.

Clothed in a simple tunic and barefoot, Francis wandered the countryside proclaiming God’s love and calling people to peace and penance. Others were drawn to his example, and he soon gathered followers who became the first Franciscans—men committed to poverty, fraternity, and joy in the Lord. Francis’ deep love of creation reflected his awareness that all things bear the mark of their Creator. His famous Canticle of the Sun praises God for “Brother Sun,” “Sister Moon,” and all creatures of the earth.

Francis also bore the stigmata—the wounds of Christ—becoming the first recorded person in history to receive this mystical grace. Despite great suffering, he remained joyful and humble, giving thanks for every trial. Near the end of his life, nearly blind and frail, he composed hymns of praise and embraced death with peace, calling it “Sister Death.”

St. Francis of Assisi’s legacy endures through the Franciscan family of priests, brothers, and sisters, as well as countless lay followers inspired by his message of simplicity and love. His example continues to remind the world that true joy is found not in possessions, but in living the Gospel fully.

St. Francis of Assisi’s feast day is October 4th.