Prayer of St. Francis

This prayer is attributed to St. Francis, born in Assisi in 1182. Born into a wealthy family, he was a carefree, impetuous young man until a vision of Jesus speaking to him from the cross of San Damiano Church told him to "rebuild my church." He renounced his wealth and dedicated his life to radical simplicity and evangelization.

Whether or not Francis actually wrote this prayer, it captures his spirit and has "inspired" many Christians over the years.

Prayer of St. Francis

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace

Where there is hatred let me sow love;

Where there is injury, pardon;

Where there is there is doubt, faith;

Where there is despair, hope;

Where there is darkness, light;

Where there is sadness, joy.

Oh, Divine Master grant that I may not

so much seek to be consoled as to console;

To be understood as to understand;

To be loved as to love.

For it is in giving that we receive,

In pardoning that we are pardoned,

And in dying that we are born to eternal life.