Francis was the son of a wealthy cloth merchant in Assisi, Italy. He enjoyed a privileged life and initially pursued a worldly life, even dreaming of knighthood. A period of imprisonment after a battle with Perugia and a subsequent illness led him to re-evaluate his life. A turning point came when he encountered a leper, an experience that sparked deep compassion and a desire to serve those on the margins of society. Francis began to live a life of extreme poverty, giving away his wealth and possessions, including his clothes. He dedicated himself to serving the sick and poor, eventually attracting followers who embraced his way of life. He founded the Order of Friars Minor (Franciscans), emphasizing poverty, simplicity, and service. Francis is renowned for his deep love and respect for all of creation. He saw nature as a reflection of God and referred to animals as his "brothers" and "sisters". Legend says he preached to the birds and negotiated with a wolf to stop terrorizing the town of Gubbio, earning him the title of patron saint of ecology. In 1224, while praying on Mount La Verna, Francis is believed to have received the stigmata, the wounds of Christ, on his hands, feet, and side. Saint Francis died in 1226 and was canonized as a saint just two years later. He remains one of the most beloved and influential figures in Christianity, known for his radical example of love, humility, and service. His order, the Franciscans, continues to play a significant role in the Catholic Church today.