The Rich Young Man Who Gave It All Up: The Inspiring Story of Saint Francis of Assisi and the Path of Radical Poverty

The Unexpected Beginning: From Wealth to Conversion

The History of Saint Francis of Assisi is one of the most radical and influential conversion narratives in the Catholic Church. Born as Giovanni di Pietro di Bernardone in Assisi in 1182, he was the son of a wealthy cloth merchant. His youth was marked by parties, dreams of military glory, and a life of privilege.

However, this glamorous life was interrupted by two key events: his imprisonment during a war against the city of Perugia and a severe illness. These moments of suffering and introspection planted the seeds of change. It was in a small, ruined temple, the Church of San Damiano, that Francis experienced the call that would change his life and the Church.

The Call from the Crucifix: "Repair My Church"

While praying before the crucifix at San Damiano, Francis heard a voice instructing him: "Francis, go and repair My house, which, as you see, is falling into ruin."

At first, he interpreted the call literally, selling his father's horses and cloth to restore the temple. This act culminated in the famous break with his father before the Bishop of Assisi, when Francis stripped off his clothes and renounced all earthly inheritance, declaring that from then on, he would have only one Father, who was in Heaven.

This moment marks the beginning of his radical poverty and his total dedication to living the Gospel of Christ sine glossa (without additions or interpretations).

The Founding and the Franciscan Charism

Francis quickly attracted followers who were touched by his austere and joyful way of life. Together, they formed the Order of Friars Minor, which became known as the Franciscan Order. The Order's charism is based on:

1. Absolute Poverty: Living without possessions, relying entirely on Divine Providence.

2. Fraternity: Considering all human beings, and even all Creation, as siblings.

3. Humility and Service: Always placing oneself as "minor" (lesser) to everyone else.

His friend and follower, Saint Clare of Assisi, founded the female branch of the order, the Poor Clares, maintaining a life of enclosure and profound prayer.

The Patron of Creation: Love for Animals

Saint Francis is widely known as the patron saint of animals and ecology. His relationship with nature was not merely affection but a deep theological conviction: he saw the Creator reflected in every creature.

The famous episode of the Sermon to the Birds and the legend of the Wolf of Gubbio (which Francis pacified, leading it to live in harmony with the townspeople) illustrate how his sense of fraternity extended to all of God's Creation. This legacy has made him a saint of great relevance for modern spirituality and environmental awareness.

The Mark of the Passion: The Gift of the Stigmata

Two years before his death, in 1224, Francis retreated to Mount La Verna for a period of fasting and prayer. There, he received the gift of the Stigmata: the wounds of Christ’s Crucifixion appeared on his own body.

This final miracle served as proof of his complete identification with Jesus and His Passion. He not only followed the poor and humble Christ but also the suffering Christ.

Saint Francis of Assisi passed away on October 3, 1226. His legacy of humility, joy, and unconditional love for his neighbor and for nature continues to inspire people of all faiths and walks of life.