This book, Francis of history and his influence in the world brings to life in our own times the life of Francis of Assisi and his influence in the world. The text presents St Francis of Assisi his life, conversion, mission, death, and his lasting influence. Francis experienced a profound conversion from a life focused on wealth, status, pleasure, and worldly ambitions to a life centered completely on Christ and the Gospel. Through illness, prayer, the vision at Spoleto, and especially his encounter with the crucifix at San Damiano, he discovered God’s call. Francis embraced poverty, served the poor and lepers, and understood that he was called to renew the Church by living and preaching the Gospel.

His conversion led him to a mission of preaching peace, penance, poverty, and the Gospel. As brothers joined him, he formed a community based on simplicity, fraternity, prayer, service, and complete trust in Divine Providence. He taught his brothers that the Gospel should be preached not only through words but also through their way of life.

At the heart of this book therefore, is a call for us to live in peace with God, ourselves, others, and all creation, making one’s life an example of faithful Gospel living and love for others and a continued witness to humility, love, simplicity, service, and care for all creation.