Prayer of St. Francis

The Prayer of St. Francis is a widely beloved Christian prayer for peace and self-giving. Though popularly attributed to the 13th-century saint, it is an anonymous 20th-century text. It asks God to make the petitioner an instrument of divine love, pardon, and hope in a world suffering from hatred and despair.

Prayer Text

What is the Prayer of St. Francis?

This prayer first appeared anonymously in a 1912 French spiritual magazine called La Clochette. Its popularity grew when it was printed in the Vatican's newspaper during World War I and later translated into English. It was first attributed to St. Francis of Assisi in the 1920s, likely because its themes of peace, poverty of spirit, and service so closely mirror his spirituality. While not his composition, the Church embraces its profound alignment with the Gospel.

What does the Prayer of St. Francis mean?

The prayer is a profound meditation on Christian charity and kenosis, or self-emptying. It asks God to reverse our natural inclinations, shifting focus from receiving to giving and from being understood to understanding others. It reflects the Beatitudes by seeking to be a peacemaker. The Catechism of the Catholic Church notes that "earthly peace is the image and fruit of the peace of Christ" (CCC 2305), a reality this prayer petitions God to enact through us.

When Do Catholics Pray the Prayer of St. Francis?

This is an excellent prayer to begin the day, setting an intention for selfless service. It is particularly powerful when facing personal conflict, praying for peace in the world, or preparing for the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Many pray it on the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi on October 4th or during times of personal struggle with pride or despair, asking to become a conduit for God's grace.

Frequently Asked Questions