St Francis of Assisi

FRANCIS, HERALD OF THE GREAT KING | THE LIFE OF ST FRANCIS OF ASSISI From the streets of medieval Assisi to the heights of La Verna, the life of St Francis of Assisi was transformed from youthful dreams of glory into a radical following of Jesus Christ. This song follows Francis through his extraordinary journey: his captivity and conversion, his encounter with the leper, his pilgrimage to Rome, the voice of Christ at San Damiano, and his dramatic renunciation of wealth before the Bishop of Assisi. He embraced Lady Poverty, rebuilt ruined churches, cared for lepers and discovered his vocation when he heard the Gospel calling him to leave everything and follow Christ. Soon companions gathered around him, and the Friars Minor were born. The story also celebrates St Clare of Assisi, the birth of the Poor Clares, Francis's missionary journeys, his encounter with the Sultan at Damietta, and his desire to preach Christ throughout the world. At Greccio, Francis helped make the mystery of Christ's Nativity come alive through the Christmas crib. At La Verna, after deep contemplation of Christ's Passion, he received the sacred stigmata. Even amid suffering, Francis composed the magnificent Canticle of the Sun, praising God through creation. At the end of his earthly pilgrimage, he embraced “Sister Death” with the same joyful poverty that had marked his entire life. The Catholic Encyclopedia describes Francis as a man whose love of creation flowed from a profound awareness of the presence of God: he saw in created things reflections of the beauty, wisdom and goodness of their Creator. ([New Advent][1]) St Francis of Assisi, lover of Christ, lover of the poor, herald of the Great King—pray for us! 🙏✝️🕊️