St. Francis of Assisi with pigeons

St. Francis of Assisi – Life, symbols and patronage

Discover the life of the saint who inspired generations through poverty, peace, and love for all creation

St. Francis of Assisi, also known as “the Seraphic King”, is one of the most venerated saints in the world. His teachings and ideals continue to guide modern society.

Born in 1181 in Assisi to wealthy merchant Pietro Bernardone, he was baptized Giovanni but nicknamed Francis after his French mother. He lived a rich and worldly youth and dreamed of being a knight. He fought in the war between Assisi and Perugia, was captured and imprisoned – an experience that deeply changed him.

In 1205, while praying in the Church of San Damiano, he heard Christ speak from the crucifix: “Francis, go and rebuild my house, which you see is falling into ruin.” Taking it seriously, he sold cloth from his father’s shop to fund repairs. After a family conflict, he renounced his inheritance and began a life of poverty and humility.

Initially mocked, he soon gathered followers and began preaching throughout Umbria. In 1210, Pope Innocent III approved the Franciscan Rule, founding the Order of Friars Minor. In 1212, with Clare of Assisi, he founded the Poor Clares. In 1221 he established the Third Order for laypeople.

His life goal was to imitate Christ. In 1224, he received the stigmata on Mount La Verna — the first known case in Christian history. Out of humility, he never became a priest. He died on October 3, 1226 and was canonized two years later by Pope Gregory IX.

Iconography

Depicted in simple brown habit with hood, preaching to birds, with stigmata, crucifix, skull, globe, lily, wolf or lamb.

Feast day

October 4

Patron saint of

Italy, Assisi, Diocese of Basel, merchants, weavers, tailors, linen and fabric sellers, the poor, social work, environmental protection, headaches, and plague.