Discover the enduring legacy of St. Francis of Assisi, patron of animals, peace and ecology, whose life is a testament to living the Gospel through simplicity and love for all creation. Born into wealth around 1181, he renounced his inheritance in the town square, embraced "Lady Poverty," founded the Franciscan Order, and received the stigmata, inspiring countless souls to serve the poor and cherish God's creation.
Shop St. Francis medals and rosaries, garden statues, San Damiano crosses and sacred art.
Blessing of the animals: Many parishes bless animals on his feast, October 4. Pray the Prayer of St. Francis, and see our Catholic pet gifts.
Children can play our free game, St. Francis: Peace to All Creatures.
About St. Francis of Assisi
1181 or 1182 – 1226 · Feast October 4 · Founder / Religious / Stigmatist
Italian founder of the Franciscan Order (1181/82-1226), son of a wealthy Assisian cloth merchant who renounced his inheritance to embrace the Gospel literally; received the approval of his Rule from Innocent III in 1209/10. Composer of the Canticle of the Sun, originator of the Christmas crèche at Greccio (1223), and first known recipient of the stigmata at La Verna (1224). Canonized 1228 by Gregory IX, two years after his death.
St. Francis of Assisi is the patron saint of Animals, Catholic Action, Ecology, Merchants, Peace and Italy.
More St. Francis of Assisi: Medals · Rosaries · Patron of Animals and Catholic Action
Read the life of St. Francis of Assisi → · See all 547 St. Francis of Assisi gifts →
