Date of Birth: 1181 or 1182 (exact date uncertain)
Zodiac Sign: Unknown
Date of Death: October 3, 1226
Biography
Saint Francis of Assisi, born Giovanni di Pietro di Bernardone, was an Italian Catholic friar, deacon, and preacher. He founded the Franciscan Order, the women’s Order of Saint Clare, and the Third Order of Saint Francis for men and women not able to live the lives of itinerant preachers. Born into a wealthy family, Francis lived a carefree life but underwent a profound spiritual transformation around 1205, after which he devoted himself to a life of poverty, preaching, and caring for the poor and sick. Renowned for his love of nature and animals, Francis is the patron saint of ecology. He passed away on October 3, 1226, and was canonized as a saint on July 16, 1228, by Pope Gregory IX.
5 Interesting Facts about Francis of Assisi
1. Francis of Assisi is known for receiving the stigmata, the wounds of Christ, which he bore for the last two years of his life.
2. He composed the “Canticle of the Sun,” one of the earliest pieces of literature written in the Italian language.
3. The Basilica of Saint Francis in Assisi, built in his honor, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
4. He is credited with creating the first live nativity scene in 1223 to celebrate Christmas.
5. Francis was known for his humility and referred to himself as “God’s fool.”
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Francis of Assisi
1. “Preach the Gospel at all times and when necessary, use words.”
2. “Start by doing what’s necessary; then do what’s possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible.”
3. “For it is in giving that we receive.”
4. “Lord, make me an instrument of your peace. Where there is hatred, let me sow love.”
5. “All the darkness in the world cannot extinguish the light of a single candle.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
As a saint who took a vow of poverty, Francis of Assisi did not accumulate wealth. His highest net worth would be considered his spiritual wealth and influence, which has been immeasurable over centuries.
Children
Saint Francis of Assisi did not have any biological children. He considered the members of his religious orders to be his spiritual children.
Relevant Links
1. [Francis of Assisi – Biography](https://www.britannica.com/biography/Saint-Francis-of-Assisi
2. [Francis of Assisi – Catholic Online](https://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=50
