St. Francis of Assisi, pictured above with the imprints of the stigmata in his hands and feet, suffered for Christ. St. Francis prescribed an ascetic life for his followers who would later become monks of the Franciscan Order. St. Francis gave up a life of wealth for a life of poverty. He renouced his father's wealth, and consequently was held captive by his own family in hopes that he might change his mind. St. Francis believed not only that one should give up all earthly things for Christ, but also that one should suffer and do penance in a manner revealed to him by God. The Franciscan Rule imposed heavy restrictions on the followers of the order. In his testament, St. Francis forbids anyone to seek shelter or protection from persectution; this persectution is not only a method of suffering, but those Franciscan who travel and preach should also obey their opressors and leave those areas where they are not wanted. This is the ultimate form of obedience: obedience to those who persecute you, for they are leaders in their community and church.

Travel on and preach from here, brothers and sisters.

Enter the church and view the Renunciation of St. Francis here.