St. Francis of Assisi (born c. 1181, Assisi, Italy; died October 3, 1226; canonized July 16, 1228; feast day October 4) was the founder of the Franciscan religious orders of the Friars Minor, the woman’s Order of St. Clare (the Poor Clares, with St. Clare of Assisi), and the Third Order. He was also a leader of the movement of evangelical poverty. His evangelical consecration to poverty, charity, and personal charisma drew thousands of followers. Francis’ devotion to the human Jesus and the desire to follow Jesus’ example reflected and reinforced important developments in spirituality.

800th Jubilee of St. Francis of Assisi

– From the Vatican –

In this age, marked by so many seemingly interminable wars, by internal and social divisions that create mistrust and fear, St. Francis continues to speak. Not because he offers technical solutions, but because his life points to the authentic source of peace. The Franciscan vision of peace is not limited to the relations between human beings, but also embraces the whole of creation. Francis, who calls the sun “brother” and the moon “sister,” who recognizes in every creature a reflection of divine beauty, reminds us that peace must be extended to the entire family of Creation. This insight resonates with particular urgency in our time, when our common home is threatened and cries out under exploitation. Peace with God, peace among human beings and with creation are inseparable dimensions of a single call to universal reconciliation. Dear brothers and sisters, may the example and spiritual legacy of this Saint, strong in faith, steadfast in hope, and ardent in active charity towards his neighbor, inspire in everyone the importance of trusting in the Lord, of living a life faithful to the Gospel, and accepting and illuminating every circumstance and action of life with faith and prayer. —LEO PP. XIV