Saint Francis of Assisi , born in Giovanni di Pietro in 1181, is an Italian saint, founder of the Franciscan Order. For this reason he is also known by the name of “Father Francisco.” Despite being born into a wealthy family, he always lived austerely and simply , mired in poverty. He was canonized by the Catholic Church in 1228 by the hand of Pope Gregory IX, two years after his death, and his feast is celebrated on October 4.
Curiosities of Francisco de Asís
The life of Saint Francis of Assisi was inspired by the verse Matthew 10.9, which reflects what Jesus said to his disciples: “Do not wear gold, silver or coins on your belt .”
He renounced the large inheritance from his parents and dedicated himself to caring for the poor, the sick and the needy. He gave himself completely to God and spent his days fasting and praying.
In 1210 he had 12 followers, the same number as the apostles. Then Saint Francis of Assisi decided to write a document with a series of evangelical advice to achieve perfection . Then he and his followers traveled to Rome on foot for the Pope to approve the writing.
When he was 19 years old, shortly before his conversion, he fought in the army in a war that was fought between the cities of Assisi and Perugia. They took him prisoner and spent about a year in jail.
One of the most curious facts about the Italian saint is that his tomb was lost for many centuries . Although the body of Saint Francis was transferred to its basilica in 1230, the Franciscans decided to hide it to protect it from the Saracens. Over the years the location of his body was forgotten, and it was not rediscovered until the early nineteenth century.
Featured phrases
- The true teaching that we transmit is what we live; and we are good preachers when we put what we say into practice.
- We have nothing else to do but be diligent to follow God’s will and to please him in all things.
- With how much more love can one of us love and nurture his brother in spirit.
- We have been called to heal the wounds, to unite what has fallen apart and to bring home those who have lost their way.
- I need few things and the few that I need, I need little.
- While you are proclaiming peace with your lips, be careful to hold it even more fully in your heart.
