RAGS TO RICHES TALES are one of humanity’s most popular tropes: such stories give us hope for betterment and security. Far rarer – but even more compelling however – are instances of those born into prosperity who willingly renounce it all, which is exactly what Saint Francis of Assisi did.
Born in Umbria in 1182, his father was an affluent silk merchant and a young Francis enjoyed all the trappings and promise of such a start. However, aged just 20, he faced the horrors of a brutal war between Assisi and Perugia which saw him end up imprisoned and seriously ill. Later, he witnessed a vision of Christ and had a chance to meet with a leper. All of these turned out to be a series of defining moments leading him to question his purpose and calling.