Francis of Assisi quotes
1181 – 1226 · High Middle Ages, 12th–13th century · Catholic friar, preacher and founder of the Franciscan order
About Francis of Assisi
Born in Assisi and dying near Assisi, he abandoned family wealth to live in poverty, preach peace and humility, and organize followers into the Franciscan order. Tradition credits him with popularizing the live nativity; his spirituality emphasizes trust in divine providence, simple joy and solidarity with the poor.
Quotes
“Lord, help me to live this day, quietly, easily. To lean upon Thy great strength, trustfully, restfully. To wait for the unfolding of Thy will, patiently, serenely. To meet others, peacefully, joyously. To face tomorrow, confidently, courageously.”
Source: no specific work is documented · Check the source
Disputed attribution What we know
- What is documented
- The prayer is attested in numerous modern devotional compilations and church materials, but no primary Franciscan manuscript or early witness is cited.
- What remains uncertain
- Though fitting Franciscan themes, the precise wording is disputed: variants and lack of early documentation prevent firm authentication.
This gentle prayer echoes Franciscan spirit: steady trust in God, simple living, and calm courage about the future. It reads like a practical plea to be carried through one day by a larger strength and peaceful attention to others. The wording appears widely in modern devotional material but lacks a secure medieval source.