Francis of Assisi legacy marked 800 years after death

Eight hundred years after his death, the legacy of Francis of Assisi continues to influence both Christians and those outside the faith. Rather than being sought primarily for miracles, he is recognized as an inspiration for a specific style of spirituality and lifestyle.

Historical accounts, such as the ‘Fioretti’, highlight his humility. Despite being the son of a wealthy merchant who once aspired to worldly glory and knighthood, Francis underwent a profound conversion. This shift was characterized by a move away from seeking self-importance toward a life rooted in a broader spiritual horizon, embracing a role of service rather than mastery.