Grace and Space

St. Francis was born in Assisi, a son of a wealthy merchant on 1181. He became a soldier and went to war, thinking of the adventures and the loot. But he ended up a prisoner. After getting his freedom and recuperating from a sickness, he had a vision of Jesus asking him to repair his Church. He left his family and his riches and became a beggar, attracting followers first among his friends. Thousands would join him amazed at his enthusiasm to imitate the poor Christ. St. Francis wanted to share peace to everybody, including the Muslims. In fact, while crusaders were invading Palestine, Francis went to talk with the sultan of Egypt. He could speak of peace even in situations of war because he enjoyed it within himself. The secret of this peace is Jesus living within him.  He died after receiving the stigmata (the wounds of Christ) in October 3, 1226.

 Novena to St. Francis of Assisi