St. Francis of Assisi

Francis of Assisi wanted nothing to stand between his soul and Jesus Christ. The wealthy merchant's son laid aside comfort and ambition, served lepers, rebuilt ruined chapels, and embraced Lady Poverty with a joy that drew others after him.

The Friars Minor grew from his simple resolve to live the Gospel without reserve. Francis preached repentance, cared for the poor, sent brothers on mission, and guarded the fraternity against the desire for property and privilege. His love of creation flowed from praise of the Creator, and his tenderness toward creatures belonged to the same conversion that led him to the leper and the crucifix.

Near the end of his life, Francis received the stigmata while praying at La Verna, bearing in his body a sign of his conformity to the crucified Christ. Worn by penance and illness, he died praising God. His joy was the freedom of a man who had given everything to Christ.