Saint Francis of Assisi was the founder of the Franciscan order, but to most people he is best known as the Patron Saint of wild birds and animals as well as ecology. He is appealed to for the good health, well-being, and protection of all animals, and for facilitating dream contact between beloved deceased animals and their grieving owners. His intercession is often sought in conjunction with that of Saint Martin De Porres, the Patron Saint of veterinarians and domestic animals.
Francis was born in Assisi in Umbria, Italy in the year 1181 or 1182. His father was a wealthy cloth merchant and his mother was a noblewoman. Francis led the life of a playboy in his youth, enjoying wealth and privilege, and experimenting with the sensual side of life. He was athletic and very popular within his social circle.
During a skirmish with a nearby enemy city, Francis was captured and taken prisoner for over a year. During this time, he underwent a change of interests, becoming more spiritual and religious. He "married" himself to Lady Poverty, disavowing his family's money and prestige.
Ultimately his rebellion against the status quo led to his founding of the Franciscan order, a group of celibate monks whose mission was the preaching of peace, forgiveness, and brotherly love. Unlike other saints and even apostles, Francis did not limit his preaching to human beings, for he included animals and the rest of the living world in his ministry. Many stories are told of how wild animals, including wolves, birds, and half frozen bees sought sanctuary with Francis and were given succour. He also composed hymns and praise songs to natural phenomena, the best-known being his "Canticle to the Sun."
Images of Saint Francis show him wearing the brown robes, knotted belt, and tonsured haircut of the Franciscan order. Trees, birds, and animals present in his representations indicate his love of the natural world. His special affection for birds, whom he referred to as his "little brethren," has led to the popularity of garden bird feeders made in his likeness, in which he holds bird seeds in his hand of a fold of his robe.
His feast day is celebrated on October 4.
The label shown here is from a Lucky Mojo brand Saint Francis Ritual Oil, burned by those who seek the intercession and miraculous aid of this Patron Saint.
The same herbs and fragrances used to dress this candle for customers and clients are the basis of Lucky Mojo Saint Francis dressing oil used for anointing oneself, fixing the home, preparing brown offertory candles or feeding a mojo bag. These herbs and scents also can be found in Saint Francis incense powder, sachet powder, and bath crystals.
Like the rest of the Lucky Mojo line, this product contains genuine herbal essential oils, not synthetic fragrances. Lucky Mojo labels are adapted from vintage packaging and in many cases the images are as traditional as the ingredients themselves.
Order Saint Francis Holy Cards from the Lucky Mojo Curio Co.
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