Let us Pray the Collect for The Feast of St. Francis Most high, omnipotent, good Lord, grant your people grace to renounce gladly the vanities of this world; that, following the way of blessed Francis, we may, for love of you, delight in your whole creation with perfectness of joy; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Saint Francis of Assisi (c. 1181–1226) is one of the most beloved and influential figures in Christian history, known for his radical embrace of poverty, deep love for creation, and founding of the Franciscan Order. Born Giovanni di Pietro di Bernardone in Assisi, Italy, to a wealthy merchant family. Renounced his wealth and family ties to live in poverty, embracing a life modeled on the teachings of Jesus. In 1209, founded the Order of Friars Minor (Franciscans), emphasizing poverty, humility, and itinerant preaching. Also co-founded the Order of Poor Clares with St. Clare of Assisi, and the Third Order for laypeople. Patron Saint of animals and ecology, often depicted surrounded by birds and other creatures.

A Prayer Attributed to 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;
it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. Amen