The most famous prayer associated with Saint Francis is the prayer that begins, “Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.” This prayer is often recited at funerals and other solemn occasions, and it has become a staple in the liturgy of many churches. The prayer is an example of the kind of selfless love that Saint Francis embodied in his life. It asks for grace to be able to forgive others, to console the sorrowful, to understand those who are different from oneself, to love one’s enemies, and to promote peace wherever possible. The prayer reminds us that the ultimate goal of our lives is not to accumulate wealth or power, but to bring God’s love and mercy to the world.
Another prayer that is often associated with Saint Francis is the Prayer of Saint Francis of Assisi. This prayer was not actually written by Saint Francis himself, but it embodies his spirit and is often attributed to him. The prayer asks for the grace to seek first to understand rather than to be understood, to offer love instead of hate, and to forgive instead of seeking revenge. This prayer has become particularly popular among people who are working for peace and justice in the world, as it reminds us that love is the most powerful force in the universe.
Saint Francis also composed several prayers that were specifically devoted to the Holy Eucharist. One such prayer is the Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, which expresses the deep reverence and awe that Saint Francis felt when he approached the altar. In this prayer, Saint Francis expresses his desire to be completely united with Christ in the Eucharist, asking that he be strengthened and sustained by the Body and Blood of Christ. This prayer reminds us that the Eucharist is not just a symbol or a ritual, but a real encounter with the living God.
Lastly, Saint Francis is often associated with the Canticle of Brother Sun, a hymn of praise that he composed shortly before his death. In this hymn, Saint Francis celebrates the beauty and wonder of all of God’s creation, including the sun, the moon, the stars, and even death. He acknowledges that all of creation gives glory to God, and he expresses his own gratitude for the gifts that God has given to him. This hymn is a beautiful reminder that everything in the world is a gift from God, and that we should be grateful for everything that we have.
In conclusion, the prayers of Saint Francis are a testament to his deep faith and his profound love for God and all of God’s creatures. These prayers offer us inspiration and guidance as we seek to live out our own faith. They remind us that the ultimate goal of our lives is not to accumulate wealth or power, but to bring God’s love and mercy to the world. Through these prayers, Saint Francis continues to be a source of spiritual strength and inspiration for millions of people around the world.