St. Francis of Assisi (born Giovanni Francesco di Bernardone; 1181/1182 October 3, 1226) was an Italian Catholic friar best known for founding the Franciscan Order, as well as founding the womans Order of St. Clare and the lay Third Order of Saint Francis. St. Francis is one of the most celebrated religious figures in history. He is known as the patron saint of animals, the environment and one of the two patrons of Italy (with Catherine of Siena), and it is customary for Catholic and Anglican churches to hold ceremonies blessing animals on his feast day every October 4. The Life and Legends of Saint Francis of Assisi by Father Chalippe is a wonderful biography on Assisi. A table of contents organizing hymns by category is also included for easier navigation.