Saint Francis of Assisi: A Life of Joy

He turned away from his life of wealth and privilege to live with lepers the "untouchables" of his society. He preached the idea of the sanctity of all life becoming an advocate of animal rights and environmentalism in a time when even human life often had little value. He found joy in owning nothing and giving everything away. He was story of Saint Francis of Assisi and the story of his life is inspiring and radical. And now more than ever it bears important messages for American children living in a culture of casual abundance and waste. Saint Francis of Assisi is the patron saint of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.-a father a devout Roman Catholic a crusader for clean air and water and a member of a family famous for its dedication to public service. It is no wonder then that this saints story should resonate so powerfully with him. Mr. Kennedy has retold Franciss story as a lesson and inspiration for his own children-and for children everywhere.