STEM 11 – ST.

FRANCIS OF ASSISI
Feast Day: October 4
Patron saint of the environment and animals
Born in 1181 in Assisi, Italy, Francis, who founded the Franciscan
Order, had a challenging upbringing. Initially named Giovanni, his father Pietro
Bernardone wasn't happy with that name, so he changed it to Francesco to
show his love for France. He grew up in wealth, enjoying a carefree life. He
was friendly and cheerful, liked by everyone. He became a leader of young
people who had wild parties and he admitted to living a sinful life during this
time. Even though his father wanted him to have a successful business career,
Francis fell in love with French culture. He liked French music, romance, and
musicians. Despite doing well in business, he wanted more than just money –
he dreamt of becoming a noble knight. But his plans changed when Assisi
went to war, and he ended up being captured after the battle with Perugia.
After being freed, Francis kept partying, but a dream made him think
differently. He wanted to join the Fourth Crusade for fame, but another dream
made him return home without going. This made him start seeking spiritual
change by praying and thinking about his life. During this time, he met a leper,
and even though he was repelled, he kissed the leper's hand. This act of
kindness made him happy. Francis' desire for spiritual change led him to the
San Damiano church, where he felt called to "repair my church." At first, he
thought this meant fixing the building, but he later understood it was about a
deeper spiritual mission. He began preaching and attracted followers who lived
simply, were poor, and loved God. He took the Bible's teachings literally,
focusing on giving up belongings and following the Gospel's teachings. He
formed a diverse group of people who treated everyone equally with respect
and love, no matter who they were. Francis felt deeply connected to nature,
considering all of God's creations as his brothers. This went beyond just
enjoying nature's beauty – it was a strong spiritual connection to the natural
world. He died on October 4, 1226 at the age of 45.

Prayer
Peace Prayer of Saint Francis of Assisi
Lord, make me an instrument of your peace: where there is hatred, let me sow
love; where there is injury, pardon; where there is doubt, faith; where there is
despair, hope; where there is darkness, light; where there is sadness, joy. O
divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console,
to be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love. For it is in giving that
we receive, it is in pardoning that we are pardoned, and it is in dying that we
are born to eternal life. Amen.