Devotion 

St Francis of Assisi

Frances Taylor 

St. Francis of Assisi is one of the most beloved saints known for his gentleness and his love of animals. St. Francis is the patron saint of animals and the environment. Among other things, he is known to have put together the first live Nativity scene. On his feast day, churches in both the Catholic and Anglican traditions celebrate the blessing of the animals. Although he was from a wealthy family, he later embraced a lifetime of poverty. He founded the Franciscan Order of Friars but never felt worthy to be ordained a priest. He remained a deacon. He chose St. Anthony of Padua to succeed him. Francis was wild in his youth but after a time as a prisoner of war, he turned his life around and became a Christian. He became a new creation through his baptism. He embraced his new faith and preached all over the countryside bringing many people to faith. Many Christians have started out living in ways that are quite opposite to the Christian way of life, ignoring the commandments as well as Jesus' way of love. Once they too became a new creation, their way of life also must change. When we follow Jesus' way of love and truth, peace and mercy follow us as well. Baptism for Christians has taken the place of circumcision, which was the symbol of the first covenant. When we preach the Good News of the Kingdom with our actions, we, like Francis, lead others to Christ.

Prayer 

Lord, thank you for giving us examples of faith to inspire us to lead lives that draw others to you. May we be worthy of your trust in us. Amen.