History of the Prayer of Saint Francis

The Prayer of Saint Francis, also known as the "Peace Prayer of Saint Francis," is one of the most beloved and well-known Catholic prayers worldwide. Although traditionally attributed to Saint Francis of Assisi (1181-1226), this prayer actually first appeared in the early 20th century, about 700 years after Saint Francis's death.

The prayer was first published in a French magazine called "La Clochette" in 1912, without mentioning its author. Later, it appeared on a prayer card printed in Normandy that connected it to Saint Francis. During World War I, the prayer spread rapidly and became popular due to its message of peace and reconciliation.

Although not originating from Saint Francis himself, the prayer deeply reflects the spirituality and values taught by the Saint of Assisi, who was known for his love of peace, simplicity, and service to others.

The Prayer of Saint Francis

Meaning and Reflection

The Prayer of Saint Francis invites us to become instruments of God's peace in the world. It calls us to transcend ourselves and become channels of God's love, forgiveness, faith, hope, and joy.

Each line of the prayer challenges us to transform negative situations into positive ones: hatred into love, injury into pardon, doubt into faith, and so on. It is a call to be active agents of transformation in our world.

The second part of the prayer emphasizes profound spiritual paradoxes: we receive by giving, we are pardoned by pardoning, and we find true life by dying to self. This is at the heart of the Christian teaching about the way of the cross leading to resurrection.

About Saint Francis of Assisi

Saint Francis was born in Assisi, Italy in 1181 or 1182 into a wealthy merchant family. After experiencing a profound spiritual conversion, he abandoned his luxurious lifestyle and dedicated his life to following Christ in poverty and simplicity.

He founded the Franciscan Order and was known for his love of nature, commitment to poverty, and dedication to serving the poor and outcast. Saint Francis was also known for his efforts to promote peace during the Crusades, even attempting to dialogue with the Sultan of Egypt.

Saint Francis died on October 3, 1226, and was canonized (declared a saint) by Pope Gregory IX on July 16, 1228. He is the patron saint of ecologists, animals, merchants, and Italy. Pope Francis chose his name in honor of this saint and the values he represents.

How to Pray

The Prayer of Saint Francis can be prayed at any time, but is particularly suitable for:

• Times of conflict or discord, whether personal or communal
• When seeking guidance on how to serve others
• As a morning prayer to set your intention for the day
• During personal meditation or reflection
• On the feast of Saint Francis (October 4)

You can pray this prayer slowly, meditating on each line and considering how you might be an instrument of God's peace in specific situations in your life.

Spiritual Benefits

Regularly praying the Prayer of Saint Francis can:

• Help us develop an attitude of service and selflessness
• Remind us of our calling to be peacemakers
• Strengthen our ability to respond to hatred with love
• Encourage us to be agents of positive change
• Deepen our understanding of spiritual paradoxes in the Christian faith

This prayer has inspired many people around the world, including those who are not Catholic, because of its universal message of peace, love, and service.