You don’t have to have been born and raised in the Catholic church to know who St. Francis of Assisi is.  He’s the guy who’s statue you often see in gardens and parks.  You know, the one with birds and little animals surrounding him.  St. Francis is, after all, the patron saint of animals.  While St. Francis serves as an example of the humane treatment of animals, he also shows us the most satisfying way to use our money and possessions.  Many might describe the young St. Francis as a bit of a spoiled brat.  His parents gave him anything he wanted, and he was left with nothing to do but spend, spend, spend and squander away money.  However, a change of heart led him to give, give, give and replace his self-indulgence with caring for the needy.

I’m certain you can come up with some great family traditions of your own to celebrate on this day.  Click here to find out some of my favorites.

*Image courtesy of allposters.com