SAINT FRANCIS OF ASSISI: His Essential Wisdom

St. Francis of Assisi (1182-1226), the patron saint of animals and the environment, is one of the most revered figures in Christianity. His brief time on Earth was distinguished by a spiritual journey that led him from a life of privilege, entitlement, and soldiering to one of humility, charity, and service. He became a preacher, mystic, and champion of the poor, and he founded the Franciscan Order, which
today comprises the largest of the Catholic Church's religious communities. Saint Francis: His Essential Wisdom invites readers to consider this universally beloved saint through the teachings that are part of his enduring legacy.

This compilation gathers more than three hundred quotations from writings composed by St. Francis himself, as well as lessons that he dictated to his brothers. Included are excerpts from his rules, admonitions, and exhortations for his brothers, for St. Clare and the sisters who founded the Second Order of St. Francis, and for his lay followers. There are also selections from his letters, prayers, and blessings, including the full text of his Canticle of Brother Sun, his personal paean to the Creator and the natural world. Arranged thematically, the extracts reflect the subjects that were of greatest import to St. Francis himself.

In these selections, St. Francis: joyfully expresses his undying love for God and for all of creation; extols the virtues of humility, poverty, charity, and service to the poor; reflects on the meaning of suffering and sacrifice; challenges us to show respect and admiration for all living things and for the environment itself. Whether you are seeking guidance for yourown spiritual journey, or simply want to learn more about the humble friar who lived the Gospel and who changed the course
of history in the process, this book will help deepen your understanding of St. Francis and his teachings.

Carol Kelly-Gangi is the editor and compiler of Jesus: His Essential Wisdom, The Essential Wisdom of the Saints, Mother Teresa: Her Essential Wisdom, The Essential Wisdom of the Founding Fathers, and other books. She lives in New Jersey with her
husband and two children.