Saint Francis of Assisi (1181 – 1226) was an Italian Catholic friar, deacon and preacher. Indulged by his parents, Francis lived the high-spirited life typical of a wealthy young man. Around 1202 he joined a military expedition against Perugia, was captured and held prisoner for nearly a year. This and the development of an illness caused him to become increasingly disillusioned toward the world that surrounded him. Losing interest in his former worldly life, he devoted himself to a life of poverty. Francis is one of the most venerated religious figures in history, often remembered as the gentle saint who preached to birds, tamed wolves, and had a genuine and deep respect for all of creation.

Quotes by Saint Francis of Assisi…