http://annettelsherwood.com/prayers/prayer_of_st_francis.html
St. Francis was born at Assisi in Umbria in 1182.He was born the son of merchant, but showed little desire to continue his father's carrear. During his youth and young adulthood Francis indulged his love of fun and luxary. It wasn't until he was kidnapped and held captive in Perugia for a year that he decided to dedicate his life to the church.
Upon having a vision dictating him to rebuild a decrepit chapel, Francis stole from his father to do just that. In anger Francis's father demamded he forfit his inheritence. Francis did with gusto and focused his attention to reparing chruches and helping the poor (especially lepers).
Francis continuted to gather followers throughout his life, when he gathered 11 he formed a brotherhood called the Friars Minor.
St. Francis was known for having a gift with animals. He is the Parton Saint of Animals and Birds. On one occasion he gave a sermon to a flock of birds, imploring them to "praise and love their creator."
St. Francis and the birds
http://conservation.catholic.org/st__francis_of_assisi.htm
During his feast day on October 4th many of the Catholic churches hold services that focus on the blessing of animals in order to honor St. Francis and his love of all animals.
http://activerain.com/blogsview/1385730/decorate-in-tuscan-style-with-christmas-nativity-scenes
St. Francis is also the founder of what is refered to today as a Nativity Scene. In 1223 St. Francis turned a stable into a replication of Bethlehem. It gained popularity in the region, and then spread throughout Europe. It remains a popular holiday tradition today throughout all countries.
