St. Francis of Assisi
Printable Catholic coloring page of St. Francis of Assisi. Learn about this beloved saint's life and faith while coloring.
About St. Francis of Assisi
In the bustling medieval city of Assisi, a young man named Giovanni di Pietro di Bernardone—later known as Francis—would transform from a pleasure-seeking merchant's son into one of history's most beloved saints.
A Dramatic Conversion
After experiencing visions of Christ, including the famous moment when the San Damiano crucifix spoke to him saying 'Repair my Church,' Francis embraced radical poverty and service to the poorest of society. This conversion experience reveals the mysterious workings of divine grace, which can touch the human heart at the most unexpected moments. The psychological and spiritual transformation that followed shows us that true conversion involves not just a change of mind, but a complete reorientation of one's entire life toward God. The saint's initial resistance and subsequent surrender teach us about the delicate balance between divine initiative and human freedom in the process of salvation.
🏛️ Historical Context
The historical period of this saint was characterized by significant religious, social, and political developments that shaped both their personal formation and their apostolic mission.
✝️ Theological Insight
This demonstrates the Catholic teaching on the universal call to holiness and the cooperative relationship between divine grace and human freedom.
The Franciscan Way
Francis founded the Order of Friars Minor in 1209, emphasizing simplicity, joy, and care for creation. His followers became known for their cheerful poverty and service to lepers and outcasts. The spirituality that emerged from this experience became a school of holiness that has influenced countless souls throughout the centuries. The emphasis on evangelical poverty reflects not merely a social concern, but a deep theological insight into the nature of Christian discipleship. By embracing material poverty, the saint discovered the true riches of the Kingdom of Heaven and demonstrated that authentic happiness comes not from possessions but from relationship with God.
🏛️ Historical Context
The historical period of this saint was characterized by significant religious, social, and political developments that shaped both their personal formation and their apostolic mission.
✝️ Theological Insight
This demonstrates the Catholic teaching on the universal call to holiness and the cooperative relationship between divine grace and human freedom.
"Start by doing what's necessary; then do what's possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible."
A Living Gospel
Francis received the stigmata—the wounds of Christ—on Mount La Verna, becoming the first recorded person to bear these sacred marks. He composed the beautiful Canticle of the Creatures, one of the earliest works in Italian literature. This mystical experience represents the culmination of a life lived in complete conformity to Christ. The visible wounds served as a powerful testimony to the reality of divine love and the possibility of intimate union between the human soul and God. The literary and artistic contributions that flowed from this spiritual maturity show us how authentic holiness enriches human culture and provides new ways of expressing the beauty and truth of the Catholic faith.
🏛️ Historical Context
The historical period of this saint was characterized by significant religious, social, and political developments that shaped both their personal formation and their apostolic mission.
✝️ Theological Insight
This demonstrates the Catholic teaching on the universal call to holiness and the cooperative relationship between divine grace and human freedom.
💡 Francis saw Christ in every person, especially the poor and marginalized.
✨ What This Teaches Us
St. Francis shows us that true wealth comes from serving others, and that joy is found not in possessions but in following Christ with a humble heart.
💬 Inspiring Words & Sacred Wisdom
"Start by doing what's necessary; then do what's possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible."
"Lord, make me an instrument of your peace. Where there is hatred, let me sow love."
"What we plant in the soil of contemplation, we shall reap in the harvest of action."
"You must ask God to give you power to fight against the sin of pride which is your greatest enemy - the root of all that is evil, and the failure of all that is good."
"All the way to heaven is heaven, because Jesus said 'I am the way.'"
👨👩👧👦 For Catholic Families
Encourage children to care for animals and nature, practice kindness to those who are different, and find joy in simple things rather than expensive toys or possessions. Parents can create opportunities for children to practice the virtues demonstrated by this saint through concrete family activities. For example, families might establish a weekly tradition of service to neighbors or local charities, helping children understand that faith must be expressed through action. During family prayer time, parents can encourage children to ask for the saint's intercession for specific intentions, teaching them about the communion of saints and the power of intercessory prayer. Children can be encouraged to research and share stories about the saint with siblings and friends, developing their ability to articulate their faith and inspire others. By incorporating feast day celebrations into family life, parents help children connect their Catholic identity with the liturgical calendar and the rich tradition of the Church.
📚 Traditional Catholic Teaching
St. Francis exemplifies the evangelical counsels of poverty, chastity, and obedience, demonstrating the christological dimension of Christian discipleship through radical conformity to Christ. Furthermore, the theological significance of this saint's life extends to their contribution to the development of Catholic spiritual theology, moral theology, and pastoral practice. Their writings and example have influenced the formation of priests, religious, and lay faithful across the centuries, providing practical wisdom for living the Gospel in diverse cultural contexts. The ecclesiological implications of their ministry demonstrate how individual holiness contributes to the sanctification of the entire Church, while their eschatological witness points toward the ultimate destiny of all creation in the Kingdom of God. The study of their life within the context of salvation history reveals the continuity of God's redemptive action from the Old Testament through the New Testament and into the life of the Church today.
🙏 Personal Reflection
Consider: How does this saint's example challenge me to grow in holiness?
Pray: Ask for this saint's intercession for a specific intention in your life.
Act: Choose one virtue from their life to practice this week.
