History of New Bedford and Westport Catholic parishes St. Francis of Assisi parish was founded nearly a century ago in 1928, primarily to serve the city’s Italian American population. Its church ...

In Catholic tradition, St. Francis of Assisi had a mystical vision of Jesus, who told him to rebuild his church. He also renounced his wealth and founded the Franciscan order of friars in 1290.

In Catholic tradition, St. Francis of Assisi had a mystical vision of Jesus, who told him to rebuild his church. He also renounced his wealth and founded the Franciscan order of friars in 1290.

Recent names FRANCIS: Pope Francis, elected in 2013, took the name of St. Francis of Assisi, known for his humility, life of poverty and love of all creatures.

But in naming himself Leo, the new pope could also have wanted to signal a strong line of continuity: Brother Leo was the 13th century friar who was a great companion to St. Francis of Assisi, the ...

The Catholic Church has a new pope. American Cardinal Robert Prevost has been elected the 267th pontiff. He has chosen the name Leo XIV, a senior cardinal deacon announced.

But in naming himself Leo, the new pope could also have wanted to signal a strong line of continuity: Brother Leo was the 13th century friar who was a great companion to St. Francis of Assisi, the ...

Archbishop Gregory Aymond walks with the Eucharistic Procession from Notre Dame Seminary Graduate School of Theology to St. Rita Catholic Church in New Orleans, Friday, June 7, 2024.

Jesuits are known for pursuing religion in a spirit of community and humility. With his new name, Francis, he honors St. Francis of Assisi, who traded riches for a life of spirituality.