St. Francis of Assisi died Oct. 3, 1226. Few from his era survive in our memories, but Francis is the exception. While famous for beginning a religious community, the Google entry under his name identifies him simply as an “Italian mystic and poet.”
Such a label often leads to irrelevance. But Francis has never been more relevant.
Franciscans and their friends around the world will celebrate his feast day Oct. 4. Tradition includes the baking of almond cookies, the blessing of pets, and sometimes the raising of a glass or two.
There is much to celebrate.
Francis made such an impact in his own time that he was canonized just two years after his death, an indication that his piety and Gospel mission had transformed the lives of thousands.
Centuries later, we celebrate what Francis brought. He confronted a world where much of Christian faith had become stale. But he embraced a vision that renewed the Gospel message and challenged all who heard him. He does the same today for so many of us.
For military veterans, the man from Assisi suffered from the wounds of war and captivity, transforming those scars into a life of dedicated service to God. His vision lives in his hometown, often visited by military veterans and other pilgrims seeking some of his mystical insights.
For peacemakers in the Middle East and other world trouble spots, Francis offers an example of the value of dialogue through his encounter with Muslims during the Crusades. Francis took bold steps in the middle of war and hatred. In today’s Holy Land, Pope Leo XIV has embraced the work of Franciscans as they work for peace in embattled places such as Gaza, where they minister to suffering Christian communities.
For those alarmed by climate change, Francis’ poetic and mystical embrace of God’s Creation offers an inspiration that lives on in the work of today’s environmental activists. Francis’ poetic love for God’s handiwork offers a guiding light for those warning about environmental catastrophe. His love for animals today inspires those who seek protection for endangered species.
Kings, dictators and armies have come and gone since Francis’ time. Most have been consigned to the dustbin of history. Few retain the influence of the simple mystic and poet from Assisi.
Planned Giving to the Franciscans allows you to make a charitable contribution as part of your overall financial and estate planning, providing support for Franciscan ministries in the U.S. and abroad. Franciscans around the world continue to serve the poor and work for peace and justice. October, the month during which we celebrate St. Francis’ Feast Day, provides a perfect opportunity to support these ministries. Options for giving are available via bequests, charitable trusts, life insurance policies and retirement accounts.
To learn more about how you can support the Franciscan Friars, contact Bro. Paul O’Keeffe, OFM, via email at pokeeffe@friars.us or by calling (646) 766-1567.