Francis of Fabriano facts for kids

Francesco da Fabriano (born Francesco Venimbeni) was an Italian friar. He lived from 1251 to 1322. He was part of the Franciscan Order. Francesco was known for his deep knowledge of religious topics. He also wrote many books.

Pope Pius VI declared him 'Blessed' in 1775.

Francesco's Early Life

Francesco Venimbeni was born in Fabriano, Italy. This was in the Papal States on September 2, 1251. His father was a respected doctor. He was known for helping the poor and sick.

Even as a child, Francesco was very religious. He prayed regularly. By the age of ten, he already knew Latin. In 1268, he decided to become a friar. His parents were happy with his choice.

A Miraculous Healing

When Francesco was young, he became very ill. His mother took him on a trip. They went to the tomb of Francis of Assisi. After this pilgrimage, Francesco quickly got better.

At the tomb, a man named Angelo da Clareno saw them. He was a friend of Saint Francis. Angelo told Francesco's mother that her son would become a Franciscan friar. This prediction came true.

Joining the Franciscans

Francesco finished his studies in humanities and philosophy. In 1267, he asked to join the Order of Friars Minor. He entered their local convent in Fabriano. There, Father Gartian guided him.

As a new member, Francesco visited Assisi. He went there to receive a special blessing. It was called the Porziuncola indulgence. In Assisi, he met Brother Leo. Brother Leo was one of the first friends of Saint Francis.

Francesco's Contributions

Francesco was a forward-thinking member of his order. He believed in the importance of learning. He especially promoted religious education.

His father helped him buy many books. These books were for the convent's library. This was one of the first large libraries in the Franciscan Order. Francesco called it the "best workshop in the convent." This library had books by important religious writers. It also had works by mathematicians and preachers. Mark of Lisbon called Francesco a "most learned man and renowned preacher."

Francesco's Writings

Francesco wrote many spiritual works. Not many of them have been published. Some of his known writings include:

• Chronica Marchiæ et Fabriani
• De veritate et excellentiâ Indulgentiæ S. Mariæ de Portiuncula
• Opusculum de serie et gestis Ministrorum Generalium

These three writings might have been part of one big history book. Most of it is now lost. Only a few parts about Franciscan history remain. He also wrote a book called Ars Prædicantium. He wrote many sermons too. One sermon was given after the death of Giovanni di Fidanza. His book about the Portiuncula was written after his trip to Assisi. On that trip, he learned that Brother Leo, a friend of Saint Francis, was still alive.

His Passing and Beatification

Francesco da Fabriano died on April 22, 1322. He had even predicted the date of his own death. He is buried in Fabriano, Italy.

Becoming Blessed

Francesco was declared 'Blessed' on April 1, 1775. This happened after Pope Pius VI approved his "cultus." This means people had shown popular and long-standing devotion to him.