The Feast of Saint Francis

Today we celebrate the feast of one of the most beloved persons in history…

 

Saint Francis of Assisi

Feast Day: October 4

 

Patron of Animals and All Who Care for the Earth

 

Saint Francis was born as the son of a wealthy merchant in Assisi in 1182. He loved to sing songs and party with his friends.

One day, Jesus spoke to Francis from the crucifix in the tiny chapel of San Damiano, “Go, rebuild My Church.”

Francis fell in love with Jesus. He gave away his rich clothing and wore a simple robe. He cared for the sick and needy.

He taught that everything God made, like the sun, the moon, the animals and plants, is good. God wants us to take good care of our earth.

Captivated by his sincerity and fervent heart, men and women, began to follow Francis.

Together they cared for others, especially the poor, and began to spiritually rebuild the Church.

 

The pope blessed Saint Francis and his followers. Saint Francis prayed and preached much.

He was the first person in history to receive the stigmata—the wounds of Jesus, and died with the words, “Welcome, Sister Death!”

 

 

Prayer of Saint Francis of Assisi

 

Lord,

Make me an instrument of Thy peace.

Where there is hatred, let me sow love.

Where there is injury, pardon;

Where there is doubt, faith;

Where there is despair, hope;

Where there is darkness, light;

And where there is sadness, joy.

 

O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek

To be consoled, as to console;

To be understood, as to understand;

To be loved, as to love;

For it is in giving that we receive;

It is in pardoning that we are pardoned;

And it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.

Amen.

 

Saint Francis of Assisi, pray for us.