St. Francis of Assisi is one of the most famous saints.
He was born in this little town of Italy in 1182. His renouncement of his wealth shocked his parents and friends. When he heard the words, “Rebuild My Church,” from the San Damiano Crucifix he began to physically repair ruined churches in his hometown.
St. Francis also received the stigmata – the wounds of Christ — and is known for inspiring a fellow noblewoman, St. Clare of Assisi, to found her own order based on Franciscan principles.
This prayer is one of many the saint wrote to describe God and how we can praise God in our everyday lives.
St. Francis of Assisi: You are holy, Lord
You are holy, Lord,
the only God,
and Your deeds are wonderful.
You are strong.
You are great.
You are the Most High.
You are Almighty.
You, Holy Father
are King of heaven and earth.
You are Three and One,
Lord God, all Good.
You are Good,
all Good, supreme Good,
Lord God, living and true.
You are love.
You are wisdom.
You are humility.
You are endurance.
You are rest.
You are peace.
You are joy and gladness.
You are justice and moderation.
You are all our riches,
and You suffice for us.
You are beauty.
You are gentleness.
You are our protector.
You are our guardian and defender.
You are our courage.
You are our haven and our hope.
You are our faith,
our great consolation.
You are our eternal life,
Great and Wonderful Lord,
God Almighty,
Merciful Saviour.
—St. Francis of Assisi
