St. Francis of Assisi: 7 interesting facts about the famous Italian saint

CNA Staff, Oct 4, 2025 / 04:00 am

The Catholic Church celebrates the feast of St. Francis of Assisi every year on Oct. 4. Known as the patron saint of animals and ecology, the 13th-century Italian friar is often remembered for his deep humility, his life of prayer, and for founding the Franciscan order.

Here are seven things to know about this beloved saint:

1. Francis was a party-loving rich kid before his conversion.

Before giving his life completely over to the Lord, Francis lived a life of luxury. His father, Pietro di Bernardone, was a wealthy silk merchant in Assisi, and Francis lived a carefree, pleasure-seeking life in his youth. He was known for partying, fine clothes, and his dreams of glory on the battlefield. It wasn’t until he was captured during a war between Assisi and P