Silver Saint Francis back reads Bless and protect my pet animals medal pendant great gift, excellent quality, looks lovely in real life too
chain length = 50 cm
Pendant L = 2 cm
W = 2.00 CM
summarizing the life of Saint Francis of Assisi:
- Born in 1181/1182 in Assisi to a wealthy merchant family
- Given the name Giovanni, later called Francis (meaning “Frenchman”)
- Lived a rich, carefree youth and enjoyed fine clothes and parties
- Fought in a local war and was captured; spent about a year as a prisoner
- After release, began experiencing spiritual visions and a desire to change his life
- Famously heard Christ speak to him from a crucifix in the church of San Damiano, telling him to “rebuild my Church”
- Gave up his wealth and renounced his family’s possessions, choosing a life of poverty
- Began preaching about simplicity, peace, and love for all creation
- Founded the Franciscan Order in 1209
- Attracted followers who lived simply and helped the poor
- Later helped found the Poor Clares with Saint Clare of Assisi
- Was known for his love of animals and nature; often associated with preaching to birds
- During the Fifth Crusade, traveled to meet the Sultan of Egypt in a peaceful mission
- In 1224, reportedly received the stigmata (wounds of Christ)
- Died on October 3, 1226, in Assisi
- Canonized as a saint in 1228 by the Catholic Church
- Remembered as a symbol of humility, peace, and care for nature