St. Francis of Assisi - A Life of Humility, Love and Service
St. Francis of Assisi (1181–1226) was an Italian saint renowned for his deep humility, love for nature and devotion to a life of poverty. He founded the Franciscan Order, emphasising simplicity, compassion and service to the poor. His radical faith and love for all of God’s creation continue to inspire people worldwide.
St. Francis is the patron saint of animals, ecology, merchants and the poor. His legacy lives on through the Franciscan movement, calling us to embrace peace, care for the environment and serve those in need. His feast day is celebrated on October 4th.
Beyond his love for creation and the poor, St. Francis was also known for his deep spiritual experiences, including receiving the stigmata, the wounds of Christ, as a sign of his profound union with Jesus’ suffering. His Canticle of the Sun reflects his joyful faith and love for creation. His teachings continue to inspire Franciscan communities to live with humility, gratitude and openness to God’s love.