Tell it to the King

Francis’ parents were very devout and he himself began living as a hermit while still a teenager. He began to attract followers and founded monasteries, calling himself and his confreres the least of all religious.

A humble hermit, he nonetheless remained concerned for the poor of the world and for speaking the truth. He spoke out against the King of Naples and was persecuted for it. But the Kings of France wanted to hear him. Louis XI on his deathbed begged the hermit to come to him (the Pope had to order Francis to go). Louis XII also appreciated Francis’ wisdom and kept him close.

Saint Francis of Paola, founder of the Franciscan Order of Minim Friars, died in France of natural causes five hundred and one years ago today.