Saint Francis Of Assisi Analysis

Saint Francis of Assisi is one of the most recognizable saints in the Catholic faith. The story of his life gives some reason as to why that may be. Saint Francis grew up in France and was named after his home country to reflect his father’s non-religious and business-driven dreams for him. His family consisted of wealthy cloth merchants who catered to his every whim. During his late adolescent years, Francis became attracted to a life of sin, partying often and giving into many vices. Growing tired of the monotony of frivolous spending and festivities Francis longed for excitement and fulfillment. He became a knight and set out to conquer enemy town Perugia. However, his dreams of knighthood were quickly dashed when most of the troops from Assisi were slaughtered and only the wealthy survived, by being held for ransom. Francis was one of these prisoners of war, in a bitter twist of fate, he was now surrounded by the nobility he so longed to be a part of, but as a prisoner in harsh conditions. His year in prison did not lead him to God, as some might assume, instead he set off again to achieve glory in the fourth Crusade. Francis would soon find his call to God on this journey. …show more content…
Francis’ sympathy to the leper, having spent time in prison and now holding knowledge of suffering, caused him to leap off his horse and kiss the leper. Viewing this leper as a sign from God Francis returned home and began his spiritual journey. He turned away from his business and towards God, praying in caves and churches around Assisi. One day, at a crucifix in Byzantium Francis, heard Christ proclaim that he should rebuild the Church and embrace a life of extreme poverty. Although some thought Francis a fool he was soon joined by 12 loyal