Speaking the truth to power

His parents were very devout, which is one of the reasons why they named him after a famous saint.

While still a teenager, he himself began living as a hermit. 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 to power. He spoke out against the local authorities and was persecuted for it.

But the Kings of France, on the other hand, wanted to hear him. King Louis XI on his deathbed begged the hermit to come to him (the Pope had to order Francis to go). King 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 two years ago today.

(adapted from an earlier post)