> [[09-figures|↑ Back to TOC]] # Saint Francis of Assisi ## Biography Founder of the Franciscan Order, born at Assisi in Umbria in 1181 or 1182; died there, 3 October, 1226. His father, Pietro Bernardone, was a wealthy cloth merchant. In his youth Francis lived a carefree and extravagant life, but after illness and captivity in war, he underwent a profound conversion. He renounced his inheritance before the Bishop of Assisi, embraced Lady Poverty, and gathered followers around him. In 1209 Pope Innocent III approved his simple rule of life. He also founded the Order of Poor Ladies with Saint Clare (1212), and the Third Order for lay people. Francis received the stigmata on Mount La Verna in 1224 and died two years later in his beloved Assisi. *Source: Catholic Encyclopedia, "St. Francis of Assisi"* ## Notes - Founded the Order of Friars Minor (Franciscans), Poor Clares, and Third Order. - Canticle of the Creatures (praise of creation). - Renewed Christian life through poverty, humility, and care for creation.