St. Francis of Assisi

The Catholic community at 1815 S. 8th Ave., Yuma, is inspired by the life and legacy of St. Francis of Assisi, one of the Church's most beloved saints. Born in 1181 in Assisi, Italy, St. Francis underwent a profound conversion, renouncing his privileged upbringing to live a life of poverty and humility. He founded the Order of Friars Minor, preaching a message of simplicity, love, and care for all creation. As the patron saint of animals, merchants, and ecology, St. Francis' feast day is celebrated on October 4th. The Yuma chapel dedicated to him embodies the core Franciscan values of reverence for nature, serving the poor, and joyful obedience to the Gospel. By honoring St. Francis, the parish community preserves his historical legacy while offering a living witness to the Catholic call to care for the whole family of creation. With a beautiful stained-glass portrait of St. Francis, the chapel invites the faithful to contemplate his life and follow his example. The community strives to live 'poor in spirit' while caring for the environment and serving those in need, reflecting the Catholic values of humility, simplicity, and radical love for all God's creation.