St. Francis of Assisi (1181/82-1226) was the founder of the Franciscans. He came from a wealthy Italian family, but re-evaluated his life after nearly dying in his early 20s. Francis began to dedicate his life to Christ, giving up material things in favour of a life preaching about love for people and all living things. He was canonised in 1228.

- Paul Rance/booksmusicfilmstv.com.