St. Francis – The “Green” Saint

St. Francis of Assisi

Today marks the passing in 1226 of St. Francis of Assisi, who founded the Franciscan order and stressed the need to imitate the life of Jesus.  His evangelical zeal, consecration to poverty, charity, and charisma, drew a dedicated following during a time of needed change to the Church.

Although he is one of the patron saints of Italy, most are not aware that in 1979, Pope John Paul II recognized him as the patron saint of ecology.

To many throughout the world, St. Francis is most remembered for his poignant and ever-meaningful prayer.  It is a plea that stands well for all today.

Prayer of St.Francis

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace,
Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
where there is sadness, joy;

O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console;
to be understood as to understand;
to be loved as to love.

For it is in giving that we receive;
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned;
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.

Related: Franciscan order, one of the patron saints of Italy, patron saint of ecology, Pope John Paul II, Prayer of St.Francis, St. Francis of Assisi

This entry was posted on Saturday, October 3rd, 2009 at 5:28 am and is filed under Religion. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed.