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The Franciscan Friars > St Francis

Over 800 years ago, Francis of Assisi was born to a wealthy cloth merchant in northern Italy. A leader of youth, he enjoyed life and was the centre of any party. He loved to sing, to dance and to lead his friends in celebration. And they followed him.

The good times gave Francis life and energy, but he felt that there must be something more. There had to be more to life than parties. He felt a stirring within. One day in 1206, while praying before the crucifix in the church of San Damiano, just outside Assisi, he heard the words of the Lord: "Francis, go and repair my house which is completely falling into ruin."

Not being a person of half measures, he took the Lord at his word and began to repair the old ruined church. Only later, after he had finished repairing the roof and the walls, did he come to realise that the Lord was asking him to renew the people of the church, not just the building. And Francis responded.

He began to proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ and to live a simple way of life. Before long, Francis became widely known for his holiness and for his practical assistance to the poor and outcast people of his society. His generosity towards poor people, his love for God's creation shown in his care for the animals and the environment and his goal to be like Jesus became the trademarks of his lifestyle. He sometimes preached by words and always by his example.

Within a short period of time, many others came to share his ideals of humility, compassion and faithfulness to Jesus' message. Some friends thought he was eccentric, others thought he was unrealistic. Some knew that he was alive with the spirit of God. Those who knew this became his followers and soon the numbers grew. In 1209, Francis wrote a Rule and Way of Life which was later approved by the Pope, thus beginning the Order of Friars Minor, known today also as the Franciscan Friars.

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This material was prepared by Paul Smith OFM from the Franciscan Friars. The material may be reproduced for non-commercial use provided this notice is included. Copyright © 2005.
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