Entrance Antiphon: Francis, the man of God, left his home behind, abandoned his inheritance and became poor and penniless, but the Lord raised him up. Gospel Verse, Cf. Mt 11:25: Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth; you have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the Kingdom.Communion Antiphon, Mt 5:3: Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven.Today the Church celebrates the Memorial of St. Francis of Assisi (1182-1226). Francis Bernardone was born and died in Assisi. He was the son of a rich merchant, Pietro Bernardone, received a good education, and in the beginning followed the ways of the world. He was taken prisoner in the battle between the Assisians and Perugians, and after his release decided to abandon everything for Christ. His father became extremely displeased at his action, and disinherited him. In 1220 he founded a new order which in ten years numbered five thousand brothers. His followers were called Friars Minor because they were to consider themselves as the least among religious. Out of humility Francis never accepted the priesthood but remained a deacon all his life. He had a great love for God’s creatures and called them his brothers and sisters. His ardent love of God merited for him the name of Seraphic. He is also nicknamed God’s Fool and Il Poverello (The little poor one).