St. Francis of Assisi

St. Francis of Assisi, born Giovanni di Pietro di Bernardone in 1181 or 1182, was an Italian Catholic friar, deacon, and preacher who founded the Franciscan Order. Born into a wealthy family in Assisi, Italy, Francis led a carefree youth, indulging in the pleasures of wealth and societal status. His life took a significant turn around 1205 when he experienced a series of spiritual awakenings, prompting him to renounce his worldly possessions and embrace a life of poverty and devotion to God.

In 1209, he purportedly received a command from Christ to rebuild the Christian Church and live in poverty. Francis began to attract followers, leading to the creation of the Franciscan Order, formally approved by Pope Innocent III in 1210. Renowned for his humble lifestyle, deep compassion for all living beings, and fervent evangelical zeal, Francis sought to live in imitation of Christ.

His Canticle of the Sun reflects his profound reverence for nature, and he is celebrated as the patron saint of animals and ecology. Francis's commitment to peace and his efforts in interfaith dialogue, such as his meeting with Sultan al-Kamil during the Fifth Crusade, marked his enduring legacy. He died on October 3, 1226, and was canonized by Pope Gregory IX in 1228.