What Defines St. Francis of Assisi: Essential Qualities of the Beloved Saint

St. Francis of Assisi, born Giovanni di Pietro di Bernardone in 1181, is renowned for his profound influence on the Catholic Church and his significance in society. A humble and devout friar, he is celebrated for his unwavering faith, simplicity, and love for nature. But what were the key qualities that made St. Francis of Assisi a beacon of kindness and wisdom?

The life of this saint is a testament to his exceptional qualities, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire. Let's delve into the remarkable qualities that set St. Francis apart and make him a compelling figure for both Christians and non-Christians alike.

Unwavering Faith and Devotion

St. Francis's life was characterized by an unyielding faith in God, shaping every aspect of his being and actions. His commitment was evident even in his decision to renounce his privileges and wealth, choosing instead a life of humble poverty.

The friar's profound devotion led him to establish the Order of Friars Minor, also known as the Franciscans, who embodied his principles and continued his mission after his death.

Love and Devotion to God

St. Francis's love for God was the prime mover of his life. This love was characterized by a profound reverence and a deep personal relationship, as encapsulated in the Canta Pascale (Hymn of Praise), written by him.

His love for God was also reflected in his dedication to prayer and contemplation. Despite his active ministry, he always made time for personal prayer, often immersing himself in nature to be closer to his Creator.

Devotion to the Eucharist

St. Francis had a deep reverence for the sacrament of the Eucharist, considering it the source of strength and grace for his ministry. He believed that Jesus Christ's real presence in the consecrated bread and wine was the ultimate manifestation of God's love and mercy.

His devotion led him to establish the first recorded Christmas Nativity scene in the 13th century, to highlight the humility and vulnerability of baby Jesus, as recorded in the Catholic Encyclopedia.

Simplicity and Humility

St. Francis's life was marked by a profound simplicity and humility, traits that enabled him to connect with people of all walks of life and share the joy and peace of his faith.

His stance against materialism and his emphasis on spiritual values made him a model of Christian simplicity, especially in a society that valued wealth and status.

Poverty and Moderation

St. Francis embraced poverty wholeheartedly,-distributing his inherited wealth to the poor and living a life of voluntary simplicity. He believed that in renouncing material possessions, one could also renounce the worries and temptations that come with them.

His Rule of Life for the Franciscan Order mandates a simple and frugal lifestyle, reflecting his belief in the dignity of labor and the importance of sharing resources with the less fortunate.

Humility in Service

For St. Francis, humility was not just an absence of pride; it was a supernatural virtue that enabled him to serve others effectively. He saw himself as a servant of the Lord and all his creatures, living his faith through action.

He demonstrated this in his ministry, particularly his care for the lepers and the sick, and his mission toეფreach out to the Muslim world during the Crusades, as chronicled in The Little Flowers of St. Francis.

Love for Nature and Creatures

St. Francis's love for nature was legendary. He saw it not as a lifeless entity to be exploited but as a mirror reflecting the love and glory of God. This love was expressed in his famous Canticle of the Sun, a hymn of praise to God for creating Brother Sun, Sister Moon, and all creation.

His reverence for nature was infectious, inspiring generations to care for the environment and to live in harmony with it.

Brotherhood of All Creatures

St. Francis considered all creatures as his brothers and sisters, treating them with kindness and respect. His famous encounter with the wolf of Gubbio, recorded in The Life of St. Francis by St. Bonaventure, illustrates this beautifully.

This brotherhood was not just metaphorical. St. Francis believed that all creatures have a divine spark within them and that they too give glory to God in their own unique ways.

Care for the Environment

St. Francis's love for nature was not just sentimental; it was deeply rooted in his understanding of the intimate relationship between humanity and the environment.

His teachings and examples have inspired many environmental movements, including the modern ecological movement. The Encyclopedia of Religion credits him as "The Patron Saint of Ecology."

In the spirit of St. Francis, may we all strive to cultivate these qualities in our own lives, living in humility, simplicity, and love, and caring for God's creation with profound reverence and respect. As he so profoundly put it, "Start by doing what's necessary, then what's possible, and suddenly you are doing the impossible."