lived: 1182 TO 1226
Born the son of a wealthy merchant, Francis turned his back on his former life when he heard God tell him to go, Francis, and repair my house, which as you see is falling into ruin. Francis followed this revelation and worked to fix a rundown local church. Despite being mocked and beaten, Francis kept building the little church by lugging huge stones and putting them in place. He did indeed fix that Chapel-even at the cost of his relationship with his greedy father.
In 1208, Francis was touched by a sermon on Jesus sending out the disciples without money or extra clothing. He took that command to heart and gave away his remaining goods. Others joined him as he rebuilt several churches. Eventually, the Franciscans became their own Catholic order.
He traveled and preached, followed his famous creed- he spoke the gospel always, but only use words when necessary. His love for nature became legendary, and he wrote the magnificent Canticle: all powerful, all good lord! All praise is yours, all glory, all honor, and all blessing. To you, alone, Most High, do they belong. No mortal lips are worthy of pronouncing your name.
Oh Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be counseled as counsel; to be understood as to understand; To be loved as to love.