It is commonly called The Prayer of St. Francis. I hate to burst the bubble, but there is no record of the prayer anywhere in Francis’ writings. The earliest mention of the prayer associated with Francis is in a 1912 French periodical. The prayer gained popularity during the World War I and by the mid-1920’s, it was commonly attributed to Francis. While the prayer isn’t original with Francis, it certainly resembles him.
Francis of Assisi (ca. 1181-1226) was the consummate peacemaker. His father, a wealthy merchant, urged him to join his lucrative business, but Francis chose the road less travelled. He opposed the militancy of the Crusades and urged a peaceful approach with Muslims. He is legendary in preaching Christ’s peace to birds and ravenous wolves. My earliest recollection of Francis was my aunt’s lawn ornament, complete with birds perched on his shoulders.
Francis founded three orders, the most famous of which are the Orders of Friors Minor. Included in his “Rule” for the order is the directive: “Do not quarrel or argue or judge but be meek, peaceful and modest, courteous and humble and speak honorably with everyone.”
While the so-called Prayer of St. Francis has become a sentimental favorite, it calls for a rigorous faith. There is nothing simple or easy about extending mercy to people who malign or criticize us. Only as we contemplate the enormity of God’s forgiveness can we appropriate mercy to others: