Sunny Pathickal's video: St Francis of Assisi Itali

A patron saint is a guiding or protecting saint of a place or person. St. Francis is one of two patron saints of Italy, alongside Catherine of Sienna. St. Francis of Assisi is well-known for his many miracles involving animals and birds and his compassion for healing critically ill and injured people. St. Francis is also the patron saint of ecology, including animals, their lives and welfare. St. Francis had a devoted love of God and His word and mercy. His love for God was so profound that it overflowed to compassion for all His creatures, ranging from other people to birds and even predators, such as wolves. St. Francis’ noteworthy accomplishments include caring for lepers and even trying to negotiate peace between Christians and Muslims during the Fifth Crusade. St. Francis firmly believed all God’s creatures deserved compassion, and often preached sermons to animals. He became the first-ever saint to exhibit Christ’s wounds, known as stigmata, in 1224. St. Francis fostered bonds with all animals, but had a particularly devoted relationship and appreciation for birds. Reportedly, many birds would follow him around, listen to his sermons and even perch on his arms, shoulders and hands. Since birds symbolize growth and spiritual freedom, many people believe the miracle of birds listening to St. Francis’ sermon was a sign from God encouraging St. Francis to continue his work sharing the Gospel of Christ.