Description
Saint Francis of Assisi and the Gospel life
Francis was born in Assisi in 1181 or 1182. After a gradual conversion, he renounced privilege and chose poverty, fraternity, care for people at the margins, and direct obedience to the Gospel. His first community received papal approval, becoming the Friars Minor. In 1224 he received the stigmata at La Verna; he died in 1226 and was canonized in 1228. His Canticle of the Creatures expresses praise of God through creation, not a sentimental worship of nature.
Birds, simple habit, and the marks of Christ
This image shows Francis in a simple gray-blue habit with birds resting on his shoulder and hands. They recall his sense of kinship with all creatures and the Creator whom they praise. The wrapped palms and visible wounds refer to the stigmata, linking his spirituality of creation to conformity with the crucified Christ. The halo and gold field place this gentle encounter within sacred art.
For peace, creation, poverty, and Christian service
The icon is meaningful for Franciscans, animal caregivers, environmental workers, peacemakers, volunteers, and anyone discerning a simpler Christian life. It can accompany prayer for humility, reconciliation, responsible care for creation, and service to people in need. It suits a home prayer corner, parish room, retreat house, school, veterinary office, or a gift for profession, confirmation, ordination, or a name day.
Crafted on linden wood in Poland
Made to order in Poland on a double-primed linden wood panel, with direct printing and decorative gold-tone metal leaf. A certificate with the year of production and a wall hanger are included.