5 interesting facts about saint francis of assisi

What Was Lonnie Frisbee's Role in the Jesus Movement? Birthday : November 26, 1182. Show more Show more He didnt study much and his academic life remained incomplete. One interesting fact that I learnt was Micheal Jordan has lost more than 900 shots lost more than 300 games but he just keeps on going. In 1209 he declared a simple rule for his disciples: to follow Jesus Christ and to act as Christ did. Do you see the translation error? He had a thing for social events and gatherings and was often the life of the party. Though he was baptized Giovanni, when his father returned from France with a penchant for all things French, he began to be called Francesco, meaning, Frenchman. As a teenager and young adult, Francis lived a carefree, wealthy lifestyle full of feasts and friends, yet he knew there was something missing. To avoid his father, Francis lived in a cave in San Damiano, eventually renouncing his family and becoming a beggar. Saint Francis of Assisi was one of the most charitable and kind people to have lived. In fact, legend says that Francis was so zealous for God that he preached the Good News even when only animals were available to listen. 2. Get LZ Premium today! He is the patron saint of ecologists, actors, many religious, Italy, Assisi, Basel, the blind, scouts, peace, workers, the poor, This event, which according to tradition, occurred on April 16, 1210, marked the official founding of the Franciscan order. Yes! Tax ID - 13-3798288 4. According to some sources, he had a brother named Angel. He was well-educated yet performed poorly in school. The world knows him as Francis, but his real name is Jorge Mario Bergoglio. Two years later, Francis submitted a further revision of the ruleknown as the Regula secunda (Second Rule), or Regula bullata (Rule with a Bull)to Pope Honorius III, who approved it in the bull Solet annuere (Accustomed to Grant) on November 29, 1223. Image source: The Famous People. Added: Tomasz. He founded an order, or group, of monks Francis of Assisi was born in 1181 or 1182 in Assisi. Join the Worlds Largest Environmental Movement! Heres How to Go in 6 Simple Steps. Stigmata is a condition in which the wounds of Christ supernaturally appear on a persons body. WebThis biography of St. Francis of Assisi focuses on his upbringing, his decision to embrace poverty, his establishment of the Franciscan Order of the Catholic Church, and his attempt to spread the Gospel to lands beyond Italy.The biography includes a series of questions based on the reading.In using this in my own class room, students are Some of his sermons included stories about birds, fish, and rabbits. The event is most heavily celebrated in Italy in Assisi where St. Francis died and earned the title of Patron Saint of Ecologists. As the official rule of the order, Regula bullata enjoined the friars to observe the holy gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, living in obedience without anything of our own and in chastity. It also outlined regulations for discipline, preaching, and entry into the order. He was born Giovanni di Pietro di Bernardone in 1181 or 1182 in the Holy Roman Empire. The Peace Prayer of Saint Francis cant be traced further back than a French magazine published in 1912. Saint Francis loved all creatures and took care not tostep on insects when he was walking. Francescotravelled with his companions from Assisi to Rome, to speak to the Pope. In his Canticle of the Creatures (less properly called by such names as the Praises of Creatures or the Canticle of the Sun), he referred to Brother Sun and Sister Moon, the wind and water, and even Sister Death. He nicknamed his long and painful illnesses his sisters, and he begged pardon of Brother Ass the body for having unduly burdened him with his penances. Probably no one in history has set out as seriously as did Francis to imitate the life of Christ and to carry out so literally Christs work in Christs own way. Religious services are held and some children even bring their pets to be blessed on this day. They were defeated and Francis was taken as a prisoner of war. Francis considered all nature as the mirror of God and as so many steps to God. Born in Assisi, Italy, in 1182, Francis grew up with every luxury a young man could want. Franciscan rule of St. Francis of Assisi. He was baptized with the name John. He was called the poor man of Assisi. But who much do most people know about his life? Richard Allen: Freedom Without Equality Is Not Freedom at All. Francis would go on to travel throughout the globe, in places like Egypt and other locations in the Middle East to preach the gospel. He gradually began to care for the poor and sick in Assisi. Survey data is powered by Wisevoter and Scholaroo, What If Cats and Dogs Had Opposable Thumbs? Does the Bible Mention What to Give Up for Lent? Yes, that Francis of Assisi, who is also one of Catholicisms most beloved saints. He gave a religious habit, or dress, similar to his own to the noblewoman later known as St. Clare (Clara) of Assisi and then lodged her and a few companions in the church of San Damiano, where they were joined by women of Assisi. Nunca alquilaremos o venderemos su informacin y usted se puede desuscribir en cualquier momento. Before his spiritual awakening, lepers repulsed Francis. Every year on October 4 there is a commemoration of Francis of Assisi. Died On : October 3, 1226. He also appointed Peter Catanii as his vicar to handle the orders practical affairs; after Peters early death in 1221, Francis replaced him with Brother Elias of Cortona. His death in 1226 brought three million people together for his funeral. Saint. In fact, St. Francis never formally finished his education! For the feast of St. Teresa of Avila, we decided to ask a Carmelite why this sainta Doctor of the Church, representing the culmination of Christian mysticismis relevant and useful for new generations. 10 Inspiring Facts about Francis of Assisi. WebIn this episode of The Catholic Talk Show, the guys explore some of the little known facts about Saint Francis of Assisi. As Francis labored to repair the church stone by stone, God began building the man into a servant-leader. How did he garner success in establishing the Franciscan order? He is one of the patron saints of Italy. Its unknown if Francis was born in 1181 or 1182, but historians agree that he was born in Italy to a wealthy cloth merchant right into the lap of luxury. God would soon test Franciss devotion by placing a leper in his path. Since St. Francis of Assisi is the patron saint of animals, there is no better day to care for animals as he taught us to do! through whom you give us light in the darkness: Be praised, my Lord, for our Sister Death. Francis accepted Gods call to ministry and poverty by saying, This is what I wish; this is what I am seeking. Goya Interesting and Fun Facts. He began the tradition of celebrating Christmas with a crib and a stable with animals. The order is also known as the Friars Minor, or Lesser Brothers. This Catholic holiday is celebrated worldwide on October 4th. Francis was labeled a mystic because he saw God in everything and believed that Jesuss prayer for oneness with the Father was attainable. Day, Francis Arranges the First Nativity Scene. In honor of his life today, we can all find a way to give back, especially to animals and the environment, of which he is the patron saint. He is the patron saint of ecologists, actors, many religious, Italy, Assisi, Basel, the blind, scouts, peace, workers, the poor, prisoners, merchants, animals. When asked why he wished to create such a display, Francis replied, I want to do something that will recall the memory of that Child who was born in Bethlehem, to see with bodily eyes the inconveniences of his infancy, how he lay in the manger, and how the ox and ass stood by.. There are some little-known facts about the humble Francis of Assisi, who dared to walk away from an easy life to follow God at all costs. October 4th is the feast day of the great St. Francis of Assisi! He was declared a saint by Pope Gregory IX onJuly 16, 1228, and the next day the Pope personally laid the foundation stone for the new Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi. From now on I can say with complete freedom, Our Father who art in heaven, he said after removing his clothes and presenting them to Pietro. WebBelow are a few facts on St. Francis that you may have never encountered! This incredible revelation thrilled Francis. He joined the poor who were begging at St. Peters Basilica in Rome and, in Italy, God spoke to him, asking him to repair his ruined church in Assisi. In 1220, Francis handed over governance of the greater Order to the FranciscanPeter Catani. He believed that actions were the best example, telling his followers to "Preach the Gospel at all times and when necessary use words.". Como parte de este servicio gratuito, podra recibir ocasionalmente ofertas de EWTN News y EWTN. WebIntroduction. Instead of going to war, Francis returned to Assisi and the mocking ridicule of family and friends. Francis of Assisi was a ladies man who kept his neighbors up with raucous singing and carousing through town. St. Francis was one of a family of seven children. 12 things to know and share, Jimmy Akin, National Catholic Register, The Real St. Francis: 14 Surprising Facts, Wendy Murray, Belief Net, St. Francis of Assisi, Catholic Encyclopedia. Suite 700 Just like Dr. Dolittle, San Francesco spoke the language of animals. Christianity.com is a member of the Salem Web Network of sites including: Copyright 2023, Christianity.com. Many people believe that he composedthe famous hymn called 'Make me an instrument of your peace. He was a popular preacher at the time. trans., Francis and His Lady Poverty, 1964), or as his bride, in the fresco by Giotto in the lower church of San Francesco at Assisi. When Francis was 20 years old, he seized the opportunity to fulfill his youthful dreams of glory by fighting in the battle between Assisi and Perugia. 1. Still determined to make a name for himself, he responded to the Fourth Crusades call for knights before fully recovering. During the Fifth Crusade, Francis and a companion traveled into Muslim territory to visit theSultan al-Kamil. The location of the body as forgotten, and it was not rediscovered until nearly six centuries later in 1818. After translating an article, all tools except font up/font down will be disabled. Out of his desire to show the world Jesus, Francis obtained permission from the church to create a Christmas display that would visually represent the setting of Christs humble birth. The patron saint of Italy, Francis of Assisi was a poor little man who astounded and inspired the Church by taking the gospel literallynot in a narrow fundamentalist sense, but by actually following all that Jesus said and did, joyfully, without limit, and without a sense of self-importance. He so yearned for Christ that his friends teased that he must be in love. To their shock, Francis announced that he was indeed in love and about to take a wife of surpassing fairness. This declaration of adoration for God and the lifestyle he was called to marked the beginning of Franciss holy surrender. You may have heard of Francis of Assisithe celebrated saint, the historic friar whose love for animals makes him the perfect figurehead for birdbaths. Francis of Assisi died on October 3, 1226 in the city of Assisi (Italy). The priest refused stolen money, and Francis father was livid. Nonetheless, St. Francis left an impact on him. He was taken prisoner and held for a year, but was eventually released unharmed. 3. On the next day, special religious events and services are organized so people from around the worldnot just in Assisi, Italy can bring their pets to have them blessed. Francescotravelled to Egyptduring the Crusades, to speak to, Although Francis had no possessions, a friend called, Francis spoke to a fierce wolf that was scaring the town of, Francis had a friend called Clare. Although he had a very rich family, he gave everything he owned to the poor. In some ways, St. Francis of Assisi could be viewed as the original Earth Day advocate. He was a popular preacher at the time. O Lord, we think of you when we look at him. Throughout most of his youth, he served as a soldier, but after a conversion experience, he renounced his familys wealth and devote his life to God. Francis died onOctober 3, 1226. He would not get any gold or silver or copper to take with you in your beltsno bag for the journey or extra shirt or sandals or a staff, for the worker is worth his keep. (Matthew 10:7, 9-11). He was in Military. Francis again sought Gods guidance through prayer and scripture. It was granted on April 1209, the official founding of the Franciscan order. Francis of Assisi is one of the most well-known saints of the Roman Catholic Church. 1752 N Street NW Proudly Servicing Over Churches & Institutions Worldwide! He called all creatures his brothers and sisters. There are stories of him preaching to the birds and speaking with wolves. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Francis of Assisi is one of the most well-known saints of the Roman Catholic Church. He went to Syria to preach and was unharmed. Francis of Assisi missionary, mystic, stigmatic, saint of the Catholic Church. He established the Franciscan Order of friars and the women's Order of the Poor PDF. Many other events take place during the week to celebrate the life of St. Francis, including nature walks and games for children. Born Giovanni di Bernardone, St. Francis was a charismatic A staunch believer in not calling anyone father, he protested against the idea of being ordained a priest and instead chose the diaconateeven when he was the leader of his order! Weve been busy, working hard to bring you new features and an updated design. Francis thought that nature was the mirror of God. His death in 1226 brought three million people together for his funeral. Only two years after his death, the Catholic Church (specifically, Pope Gregory IX) recognizes him as a saint the next day, the Pope lays the foundation for the Basilica of Saint Francis in Assisi. His life had many chapters and his accomplishments spanned over many years. Please write the correct version. Once, its said, he spoke to birds who then flew into the sky in the shape of a cross. celebration of the stigmata of St. Francis of Assisi, Who was St. Francis of Assisi? San Francesco showed selflessness by helpingpeople who were suffering from the contagious disease called leprosy. He chose the name Francis in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, a Catholic friar born in 12 th century Italy. In 1209 he composed for his mendicant disciples, or friars, a simple rule (Regula primitiva, Primitive Rule) drawn from passages in the Bible: To follow the teachings of our Lord Jesus Christ and to walk in his footsteps. He then led the group of 12 disciples to Rome to seek the approval of Pope Innocent III, an important step that demonstrated Franciss recognition of papal authority and saved his order from the fate of the Waldensians, who had been declared heretics in the late 12th century. He is the patron of animals, merchants and ecology. This happened while he was in the midst of a 40-day fast in preparation for Michaelmas, or the Feast of St. Michael the Archangel (September 29th). Pope Innocent III was initially cautious about supporting Francis and his new group of followers. His father was a cloth merchant and his mother may have been French. Upon his release, Francis suffered a severe illness. Her debut childrens book, What Is A Family? St. Francis later gave up on being the head of the order and decided to be a mere brother. WebSaint Francis of Assisi was an Italian Catholic preacher, friar, and deacon, who became one of history's most venerated religious figures. What was St. Francis of Assisis early life like? In his pre-priest days, Pope Francis used The bishop told Francis to return the money and trust God. Franciss renowned love and care for the environment and animals make him the most popular saint among nature-loving groups. Soon, his preaching gathered him a following, and he founded the Friars Minor. Don't want premium? His father was a merchant who liked French culture. Cordileone: What Catholics Can Expect From the Eucharistic Coherence Document, Spy Kids Actress Alexa PenaVega Reveals She Helped Saved a Baby From Abortion, The Power of Fasting and Sacrifice: How Lent Can Empower You to Change the World, Grow in Holiness With Your Family: Heres 5 Perfect Ways Using the Pillars of Lent, T.O.R. When Franciss father heard what his son had done, he beat the young man, dragged him before the bishop of Assisi, and demanded that Francis renounce his rights as Pietros heir and repay the money for the missing textiles. It Is So Painful to Care: How Do I Conquer Apathy? He was never ordained a priest, but as a deacon. At first Innocent was hesitant, but, following a dream in which he saw Francis holding up the church of San Giovanni in Laterano, he gave oral approbation to the Franciscan rule of life. Our e-Mail is filled with deals, news, sneak previews, top-rated products, e-mail only specials and more. The lessons learned in church and worship will honor the memory of St. Francis of Assisi. No thank you, Javascript must be enabled for the correct page display, Education for Earth: Live in the Multiverse. WebFacts - Francis of Assisi. He was called the poor man of Assisi. Francis formed a third order as well. The pages are designed for easy cutting and easy sequencing. Spiritually thirsty people came from everywhere to hear him preach. Get our inspiring content delivered to your inbox - FREE! He founded the mens Order of Friars Minor and the womens Order of Saint Clare, among many others. Annette Marie Griffin is an award-winning author and speaker who has managed and directed childrens and youth programs for more than 20 years. Every year on October 4 there is a commemoration of Francis of Assisi. Yes! Within a year, he had already gained 11 followers. Saint Francis loved the letter T. His special letter T is called the. He was held captive for a period of time. A year or two later, sickness forced him to abandon a journey to the Muslims in Spain. Francis tried to hide the stigmata for the rest of his life. 4. As the friars became more numerous, the order extended outside Italy. His life had many chapters and his accomplishments spanned over many years. His body was moved to his basilica in 1230, but was soon hidden by the Franciscans to protect it from Saracen invaders. Every day is a holiday!Receive fresh holidays directly As he called people to repentance and invited them to engage in a loving relationship with Christ, his simple invitation pierced hearts and often caused sinners to cry out to God. After his hidden burial place is first discovered in 1818, a new, neo-classical style crypt is created and, in 1978, his remains are tested and confirmed by the Popes commission of scholars and he is put in a glass urn within the old tomb. ', Francesco developed sores on his hands and feet. St. Francis of Assisi, one of the most charitable and good religious figures in religious text, reminds us to stay humble and in service of others. He wore a simple tunic and shaved the top of his head to show that he was not vain. The school, which was opened to educate the boys of the diocese, started in a building on Baltic Street and grew quickly. Visitors to his grave reported many miracles, which led to great crowds visiting his grave. An unexpected error occurred. But Francis was always transparent about why he enjoyed such an affinity with creation. During the turbulent era of the Crusades, Francis formed his own revolutionary campaign to reclaim the world for Christ. Accessible across all of today's devices: phones, tablets, and desktops. Over the next few years, Francis had experiences that inspired him to give up all his possessions and to live in poverty. Known to be the humble saint who gave up his wealthy life for his selfless dream, St. Francis catered to the poor and those who needed spiritual guidance. toyourinbox. Francis is born to a wealthy cloth merchant in Italy. In 1205 Francis planned to fight in another conflict, but on his way there he had a vision. Just like Dr. Dolittle, San Francesco spoke the language of animals. Why Satan Hates the Blessed Virgin Mary So Much, Vandals Desecrate 7-Story Christ Statue With "God Bless Abortions" Banner in Arkansas, Meet the Young Catholic Gymnast Who Took Her Faith to the Olympics: "I Feel So Blessed", Apb. Fighting the urge to continue in the revelry of his former lifestyle, Francis spent countless hours in solitude and fasting. 12 things to know and share, The Real St. Francis: 14 Surprising Facts. Francis gratefully accepted the castoff garments and marveled at the honor of forfeiting his worldly gain for Gods glory. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me (John 17:21). At around the age of 19, before his conversion, he joined the military and fought in a war against a nearby city. Interesting Facts. Saint Francis was known for his love of nature, particularly his love of animals. released through Familius Publishing in 2020. 2. WebSt Francis of Assisi, November 26, Saint Francis of Assisi was born in late 1181 or early 1182 in Assisi, duchy of Spoleto, Umbria, Italy, He was among the seven children of Pietro di Bernardone, a wealthy silk merchant, and Pica de Bourlemont. 4. WebSaint Francis of Assisi was a Catholic friar who gave up a life of wealth to live a life of poverty. Francis preached to townspeopleeven though as a layperson he was without license to do soand he soon attracted followers. (58) $1.95. We hope you and your family enjoy the NEW Britannica Kids. To correct this situation, Francis prepared a new and more detailed rule (Regula prima, First Rule, or Regula non bullata, Rule Without a Bull), which reasserted devotion to poverty and the apostolic life and introduced greater institutional structure but was never officially sanctioned by the pope. He was canonized, or made a saint, on July 16, 1228. In his weakened state, Francis sensed God drawing him away from self-glory and the military lifeand into service for Gods glory. The Fourth Lateran Council was the 12th ecumenical council of the Catholic Church and affirmed transubstantiation and papal primacy, among other things. To demonstrate his great faith in the Christian religion, he challenged those present to a trial-by-fire in which he and a Muslim would step into a fire, with the idea that the follower of the true religion would be spared by God. 5. Astounded by Franciss Godly devotion, the bishop gave him a set of discarded clothes to cover his nakedness. At age 16 Francis joined merchant-class warriors who fought against the nobility and razed the walls of the city's fortress. Hes so significant that the current pope Pope Francis chose to take his name. They preached and worked first in Umbria and then, as their numbers grew rapidly, in the rest of Italy. The Franciscan order is one of the largest orders in the Roman Catholic Church. He established the Franciscan Order of friars and the women's Order of the Poor Ladies. He went into the Muslim camp and preached to the sultan al-Kmil, who was impressed by him and gave him permission (it is said) to visit the sacred places in the Holy Land. Although Francis was qualified for the priesthood and always respected and obeyed the Catholic churchs authority, he had no desire to bear the title of Priest. If you practice and believe in Catholicism, the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi is an affirming holiday that celebrates your beliefs, values, and religious heroes. He went out with the townsfolk to fight the Perugians in a small skirmish. California - Do Not Sell My Personal Information. St. Francis was a boisterous party animal. Nowadays,it is normal tocelebrate Christmas with the Nativity Scene because of Saint Francis. He also loved animals and nature! Whether this is adopting a stray, donating to a shelter, or giving your own pets some extra caring, animal care is a great way to honor this saint. Twenty Interesting Facts About St. Francis of Assisi. Then he had a dream in which he saw Francis holding up theArchbasilica of St. John Lateran. Not only did he care for the poor and sick, but he preached multiple sermons on animals, and wanted all creatures on Earth, including humans, to be treated as equals under God. Inspired by the troubadours, Francis developed an aspiration for knighthood. But as he approached the man, the shame of his own prejudice overtook him. Third Order of Brothers and Sisters of Penance. The great crowds were causing problems in that area, so Francis prayed asking Peter to stop the miracles the miracles stopped. This book is a great way to teach your students about St. Francis of Assisi. St. Francis of Assisi is one of the Churchs best known and most beloved saints. Francis set up the first known Nativity scene to celebrate Christmas in 1220. The pages are numbered for easy sequencing. Listen to a recorded reading of this page. Web4.6. As the celebration of his stigmata approaches, lets be as humble and as dedicated as St. Francis of Assisi, who gave up his possessions for his calling. Francis was so moved by the reality of Jesuss sacrificial birth, earthly life, and death on the cross that he contemplated these loving acts constantly. St. Francis was a boisterous party animal. As this is a true Catholic holiday to honor an important Catholic figure, going to mass and worshipping is one of the best ways to observe the holiday. Closely following the top 5 strengths is another cluster of 5 strengths that perhaps round out the unique character of St. Francis. Through reforestation, environmental education, climate activism, and the protection of endangered species around the world, St Francis message and celebration of earth continues today. His feast day is October 4. San Francesco lived happily with no money. Born in 1181 in Italy, St. Francis is today celebrated as Patron Saint of Ecologists. All rights reserved. (12) $2.75. Francesco loved the French language even though he was Italian. In 1226, he succumbed to sickness and finally passed away, leaving behind a legacy which swept across the globe. He illicitly stole some of his fathers cloth, sold it, and offered to pay for the repairs to the church with the money. He called all creatures his brothers and sisters, and, in the most endearing stories about him, preached to the birds and persuaded a wolf to stop attacking the people of the town of Gubbio and their livestock if the townspeople agreed to feed the wolf. These mysterious sores are known as. After his rule received papal sanction, Francis withdrew increasingly from external affairs. Throughout most of his youth, he served as a soldier, but after a conversion experience, he renounced his familys wealth and devote his life to God. After hearing a sermon preached from Matthews Gospel, Francis knew he would undertake his Holy mission the way the Apostles had. Nonetheless, the Sultan was so impressed by his faith that he gave Francis permission to preach in his land. Francis returned to San Damiano and began to refurbish the chapel. St. Francis of Assisi instructed followers to Preach the Gospel at all times and, when necessary, use words he thought actions spoke much louder. This angel gave him the gift of the five wounds of Christ.. Born in Assisi, Italy, in 1182, Francis grew up with every luxury a In 1224 it is said that Francis had a vision and received stigmata. 2. However, Peter died just five months later. Annette has also written curriculum for character growth and development of elementary-age children and has developed parent training seminars to benefit the community. This was the wounds of Christ from the cross including his hands, feet, and side. WebSaint Francis of Assisi was an Italian Catholic preacher, friar, and deacon, who became one of history's most venerated religious figures. Three times he sensed God telling him, Francis, repair my Church, which has fallen into ruins. Believing that God was guiding him to repair the dilapidated church at San Damiano structurally, Francis sold a sizable portion of his fathers textile stock, along with his own horse, to pay for the project. He returned to Assisi and spent time alone and prayed. He genuinely believed that if others could Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world, like Francis, they would be unable to resist the love of their Savior. He preached before the Sultan. In 1212 Francis organized a second order, one for women, that became known as the Poor Clares. 1. Her passion is to help wanderers find home. He attracted followers, or disciples. He also wasnt fond of being a merchant like his father. He tried joined the military but was captured. To neglect this point is to present an unbalanced portrait of the saint as a lover of nature, a social worker, an itinerant preacher, and a celebrant of poverty. Whereas the sword could extinguish a sinners worthless life, Gods Word could cut deep into hearts and create a channel of peace that led to eternal life. No thanks, I don't want breaking news emailed to me, By subscribing, you agree to receive emails from LifeZette.com, occasional offers from our partners and that you've read and agree to our, EP 170 | Bidens Oppressive Policies Left These Military Officers With No Pay, Job, or Health Care, The Essential Missing Component of American Self Government, Libs Lose Mind Over Trump Visiting Ohio With Supplies | Biden Admin Continues To Not Give A F$ck | Ep 521. WebOctober 15 is the feast of St. Teresa of vila (1515-1582), probably the female saint and mystic with the greatest influence in the world. During their meeting, Francis respectfully shared his faith with the Muslim leader in such a compelling way that the Sultan granted him access to sacred Holy sites and requested that Francis pray for him so that he would follow God more closely..