Did you know that Saint Francis of Assisi had a favorite cookie?
According to the Franciscan Missionaries of the Eternal Word,
“Blessed Jacoba of Settesoli (1190-1273) was a Roman noblewoman and an early follower of Saint Francis of Assisi, whom he met when he came to Rome to seek permission for his order from the Pope. While staying in Rome, Blessed Jacoba would bake almond cookies for Saint Francis when he visited her home.”
The story goes that years later when Saint Francis of Assisi sensed his death approaching, he sent a message to his friend, Blessed Jacoba. His message not only asked her to come visit him, but requested that she bring things to assist his burial and the sweet treats she gave him during his time in Rome.
Father Leonard Mary and Father Paschal Mary of the Franciscan Missionaries of the Eternal Word shared this enduring little-known story of Saint Francis of Assisi on Instagram.
He loved these Italian almond cookies so much that they were on his mind until the very end!
It is said that to this day, many Franciscan communities bake these almond cookies in memory of their dear patron, Saint Francis of Assisi. You can celebrate his feast day on October 4 by making these tasty treats yourself!
The friars have a cookie tutorial video as part of their "Inside the Friary Kitchen" series on YouTube:
Prayer for the Intercession of Saint Francis of Assisi
O God, who, through the merits of blessed Francis,didst give increase to Thy Church,by enriching her with new offspring:grant us, that following his examplewe may despise earthly goodsand ever rejoice in partaking of Thy heavenly gifts.Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son,Who lives and reigns with You and Holy Spirit,one God, for ever and ever.
Amen.
Prayer Source: EWTN