The Stigmata of St Francis of Assisi

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St Francis Receiving the Stigmata, Ss Stimmate di San Francesco

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700 years ago today, on September 17th 1224, St Francis of Assisi received the Stigmata, the marks of Christ's wounds. 

St Francis was on retreat on Mt Alverna. While at prayer he had, according to Thomas of Celano, a vision of a man like a seraph with six wings, his arms outstretched and his feet together 'in the shape of' a cross. While he was contemplating the vision the marks of Christ's wounds began to appear on his body, where they remained until his death two years later. 

The Feast of the Stigmata of St Francis is celebrated on September 17th.