Why Saint Francis?

While all of the saints lived extraordinarily in one way or another, there is a special reason we chose Saint Francis of Assisi as the patron and face of Australia’s First Catholic Schools Book Club. Saint Francis shows us what it means to live a life full of compassion for people and animals, and most importantly, to live a life that helps us grow in faith and virtue.

His life is a powerful example for children who are learning to become kind, empathetic, and faith-filled. From his famous friendship with a wolf, to preaching to birds and fish, to bravely seeking peace with the sultan during the Crusades without a single weapon, and caring for lepers and the poor, Saint Francis’ life reads like a storybook, full of wonder, courage, and charity.

For young readers, Saint Francis shows us that every life can be a beautiful story when it is lived with love and purpose. He reminds us that the stories we read, the lives we live and the world around us can reflect the truth, beauty, and goodness of God.