Saint Francis of Paola (1416–1507) was an Italian hermit from Calabria who founded the Order of Minims, a community devoted to humility, penance, and perpetual abstinence. Known for his deep prayer and miracles, he was called to France by King Louis XI, whom he comforted at his death, and he spent his final years there counseling kings and the poor alike. He died on Good Friday, April 2, 1507, and was canonized in 1519.
Francis chose the lowest place — his order's very name, Minims, means 'the least' — showing that greatness in God's eyes grows from humility and trust. His gentle presence at the bedside of a dying king reminds us that faith brings peace even at the hour of death, a comfort for all who grieve and hope in God's mercy.
Saint Francis of Paola, humble friend of God, pray for us and for those we love who have gone before us, that we may trust in God's tender mercy and one day rejoice together in His presence. Amen.Enter today’s Mass → All saints →