St. Francis of Assisi

The spirit of the little poor man, Saint Francis of Assisi, lives today. His life and legacy are as relevant today as they were 800 years ago.

Francis began his life in 1182 as the son of a wealthy merchant of Assisi, Italy. Fired with the spirit of the Crusades, he became a knight and joined a group of French soldiers in the army of the Pope.

Shortly after leaving Assisi, Francis became ill and in a dream God spoke to him telling him to return to Assisi. In a subsequent dream, God instructed him to rebuild His church. At first Francis believed this to be a literal command and began physically rebuilding San Damiano Church near Assisi. (Francis used San Damiano as a spiritual refuge for the remainder of his life.) What God truly required was for Francis to set an example of love by fostering relationships that would rebuild God’s kingdom among people. These dreams changed Francis’ life forever. No longer the frivolous youth who gave extravagant parties and acted the clown, Francis withdrew from his friends and took refuge in the caves above Assisi in contemplation and prayer, asking for guidance.

The story of Saint Francis of Assisi is world famous. He gave away all his possessions, embraced a simple life and committed it to God. This humble, gentle, joyful man revolutionized the 13th century Catholic Church by his example. Francis preached a return to the Gospel life – a return to the humanity of Christ.

In his life of poverty, Francis expected nothing and was grateful for everything. He found joy in the smallest gifts of nature: the sunset at evening, the flowers and birds, the smile of a stranger. He and his followers formed communities of caring persons, witnessing to the world that love is possible. Within a few short years, the Franciscan family grew to thousands of members and spread throughout Europe.

This simple little man preached that the Gospel is literally Good News. The world and everything in it gives glory to God and each person reflects God’s love. Francis brought to the church of his time a new light: a renewed emphasis on simplicity and love. The style of Franciscan living departed from traditional monasticism. What mattered most to Francis was the inner person – the goodness that truly comes from the heart – not external things.

Francis was always drawn to people who were celebrators of life. Francis has often been called God’s troubadour, singing the praises of God – of His love and mercy.

Francis described himself and his followers as “God’s servants and His minstrels who must inspire the hearts of the people and stir them to spiritual joy.”

Even when he lay dying, broken and nearly blind, he sang the praises of the universe in one of the most beautiful poems ever written, "The Canticle of the Creatures" adding a final verse embracing “Sister Death.”

Francis died on the evening of October 3, 1226, surrounded by his band of “Little Brothers.” The Pope declared him a saint only two years after his death. His feast day is celebrated each year on October 4.

Joy truly is the essence of St. Francis. His loving spirit embraced everyone and everything.

Francis’ devotion to the church was unshakable. He obeyed God’s command to rebuild His Church. In doing this, he was an innovator, calling people to renew themselves in Christ. He embraced poverty, believing that when one no longer wants possessions, that person is truly free to love. His life was humble – but his simplicity should never be mistaken for weakness - for it is strength.

Francis speaks to the world today. His message remains true. To nations grown weary of violence and war to people grown indifferent and cold, Francis’ spirit of optimism and his joy, his all-embracing love and his simple way of life transcend the ages and give us hope.