Turning from a life of indulgence as the son of a rich merchant, Francis sought God’s will for his life. The message of the gospel touched his soul and a fire was ignited in his heart.  He knew that he had to adopt the way of life he had heard described and so, filled with a spirit of joy, he clothed himself in a simple tunic, exchanged his purse and belt for a rope, removed his shoes and threw away his staff.

‘There was no one to tell me what I should do, but the Most High himself made it clear to me that I must live the life of the Gospel’.

He died on October 3rd 1226 and as he died a great light was seen over Mount Subasio, near Assisi.  He leaves us with this light and the words, “I have done what was mine to do; may Christ teach you what you are to do”.

For more about the Life of Francis return to the main website section ‘About Francis’
http://www.franciscans.org.uk/Page1.htm
 

The Stigmata	Music for reflection: Most Holy Father from 'We Adore You' by Briege O' Hare Copyright: Hermitage Productions (used with permission)