The Prayers of St. Francis of Assisi
St. Francis was not only a preacher and servant of the poor; he was a man of prayer whose heart burned with love for God and all creation. His prayers are simple, brief, and overflowing with awe. They are not written as polished poetry or lofty theology, but as cries of the heart — praise, confession, longing, and joy.
Here you will find the authentic prayers of Francis, each accompanied by Franciscan Clarean commentary. Our reflections are not meant to explain away the mystery, but to help us hear these ancient words fresh for today. Francis’s prayers call us to:
Adoration — naming God as holy, good, and beautiful.
Conversion — asking God to enlighten our darkness and guide our steps.
Joyful Poverty — finding riches in God alone.
Mercy and Peace — living the Gospel in simplicity and love.
Creation’s Praise — joining with Brother Sun, Sister Moon, and all creatures in worship.
These prayers are not museum pieces. They are living invitations. As Francis prayed before the San Damiano crucifix, as he praised God in the fields of Assisi, as he sang with the birds and blessed his brothers, so we too are invited to pray with him and through him — letting his words shape our hearts for Christ, for creation, and for one another.
The Prayer before the Crucifix
The Canticle of Exhortation to the Praise of God
Sister Abigail Hester 
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