Issue 42 Francis of Assisi

Little-known or remarkable facts about Francis of Assisi.

Francis lived the Beatitudes.

How a rich and carefree man relinquished everything to follow Christ.

Francis’s most famous poem.

A poem by Francis.

Stories that reveal Francis’s intense, complex personality.

Not everyone who loved Francis followed his way.

Chronology of major events associated with Francis and his movement.

In that day, it took extreme measures to live for peace: a photo-essay.

Why did Francis insist that his followers live in absolute poverty?

In Francis’s day, abandoning possessions was seen as a key to holiness.

Gentle Clare of Assisi had to defy family and church to follow in Francis’s way.

Did Francis really receive the wounds of Jesus?

How should his followers obey his instructions?

Three passages of Francis's rule led to bitter controversy.

Eight hundred years later, Francis’s life and message seem remarkably up to date.

More resources about Francis, his order, and his times.