Saint Francis of Assisi

 

Perhaps no Saint draws more devotion and affection than today’s Saint, Francis of Assisi. He is known across the world as the patron Saint of animals and thus his feast is set aside for the blessings of pets and is also World Animal Day . It is fitting to make a donation to an animal shelter today be it blankets, food or monetary. St. Francis is the saint who also established the nativity scene devotion. Due to this devotion and his affection for animals today would be good to watch “The Star” or “Nester the Long Eared Christmas Donkey” which both surround the animals involved in the Nativity Story. May St. Francis inspire us to love all creatures as he did. Caring for creation especially for animals is the perfect way to live out the works of mercy to feed and shelter those in need. This is the best stepping stone for showing mercy to our fellow human. 

 O God, by whose gift Saint Francis was conformed to Christ in poverty and humility, grant that, by walking in Francis’ footsteps, we may follow your Son, and, through joyful charity, come to be united with you. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen

About St. Francis

Note: May any treats made today be made without animal products and thus truly honor St. Francis. Use vegan butter or margarine, oat, almond or dairy free milk and egg, honey and meat substitutes. 

St. Francis Animal Miracles

The Basilica and Tomb of St. Francis

St. Francis and Our Lady

St. Francis Iconography

Franciscan Movies

Animal Movies


For those who cannot or feel uncomfortable transporting their pets a virtual blessing can be found here.

Local Pet Adoptions

Click this link for more about caring for creation a perfect means to imitate and honor St. Francis.

 Note: In modern times the teaching regarding the immortality of animals comes into question. Some Pontiffs have asserted animals in Heaven as a comfort from God as Heaven truly is paradise and our faithful companions will be there with us. Animals do not have the same souls as humans but as modern scientists science point out their emotional intelligence it is safe to assume the kindness of the Author of Creation in this matter. For He who raised up such Saints as St. Francis and provided him and us with the companionship from the animal kingdom surely would not abandon them to this mortal plain forever.  

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