Saint Francis of Assisi, born with the name Giovanni di Pietro di Bernardone in 1181 or 1182, is one of the most beloved and revered saints in the Catholic Church. His life is an example of devotion, humility, and love for nature.
Francis came from an affluent family in Assisi, Italy. Growing up amidst wealth and luxury, he had a frivolous and carefree disposition. However, his life took a dramatic turn when he participated in a battle for Assisi and was captured as a prisoner of war.
During his captivity, Francis fell seriously ill and spent a lot of time in reflection. It was during this period that he had a profound spiritual experience and an encounter with God that radically changed his destiny. After being released, he renounced his inheritance and his family's wealth and began to lead a life of poverty and penance.
His decision to embrace absolute poverty and dedicate himself to Christ inspired many followers, and Francis founded the Order of Friars Minor, also known as the Franciscans. These friars lived a life of humility, poverty, and preached love and compassion for all living beings.
One of the most famous stories about Saint Francis's life is his sermon to the birds and his love for nature. It is said that Francis had a deep love for animals and God's creation and would preach to birds and wolves, which were said to listen attentively.
His devotion to poverty and prayer led him to a profound sense of peace and happiness, which he shared with others. His love for the poor and the sick compelled him to dedicate his life to helping those in need.
Saint Francis of Assisi died on October 3, 1226. He was canonized in 1228 by Pope Gregory IX, and his feast day is celebrated every year on October 4th. His message of love for nature, compassion for others, and the pursuit of simplicity continues to inspire millions of people worldwide. Saint Francis of Assisi is considered the patron saint of animals and the environment and is widely venerated as one of the greatest saints in the history of the Catholic Church.
Giornata Mondiale degli Animali: Celebrando la Bellezza della Natura.
La Giornata Mondiale degli Animali è stata istituita il 4 ottobre per onorare il giorno in cui San Francesco d’Assisi, il patrono degli animali, è deceduto nel 1226. San Francesco aveva un profondo amore per tutte le creature viventi e vedeva la bellezza in ogni forma di vita. Questa giornata speciale è stata creata per onorare il suo impegno per la protezione degli animali e per promuovere la loro salvaguardia.
