St. Francis of Assisi

Saint Francis is the beloved patron saint of animals, ecologists, and merchants and protects against dying alone.

St. Francis was born at Assisi in Umbria, Italy in 1182 to a wealthy merchant family. Well-liked, he spent his early life partying, drinking and wasting extravagant amounts of money before turning to a life of poverty and prayer. St. Francis later founded the Order of Mendicant Friars, also known as the Franciscans, who all took a vow of poverty, chastity, love and obedience. He continued to preach until his death on October 4, 1226.

St. Francis medals are popular among animal-lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.