Friday and it's finished. A bit about St. franics.
On July 16, 1228, he was pronounced a saint by
Pope Gregory IX. He is known as the
patron saint of
animals, the
environment and one of the two patrons of
Italy (with
Catherine of Siena), and it is customary for Catholic and Anglican
churches to hold ceremonies blessing animals on his
feast day of 4 October.
I have painted two or three pieces involving Saint Francis. I feel especially connected to this Saint as many do. My mother, now 82, is not only a devote Catholic but a member of the Franciscan order. My son Samuel’s school happens to be on the grounds of the St. Francis Seminary and was originally a meeting house/sanctuary belonging to the seminary. The actual seminary, with its lovely grounds and grotto, is still next to his school and has just recently closed. I always feel a sense of peace as I drive down the school's driveway as though I am on holy ground and feel a sense that he is especially protected.
Catherine.
