Saint Paul VI Franciscan

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 The religious medal featuring Saint Paul VI and Saint Francis of Assisi serves as a profound devotional item that bridges centuries of Catholic tradition, merging the medieval humility of the Poverello of Assisi with the modern leadership of the 20th-century papacy. These medals are frequently sought by collectors and the faithful alike, often serving as a commemorative piece for the 1975 Holy Year or as a souvenir of a pilgrimage to Rome and Assisi. Typically rendered in high-quality Italian materials such as sterling silver or gold, the piece reflects a deep historical veneration for both figures. While Saint Francis is universally recognized as the patron of animals and ecology, Pope Paul VI is remembered for overseeing the conclusion of the Second Vatican Council and serving as the patron of the Archdiocese of Milan.

The combined symbolism of these two figures is deeply intentional, representing a synthesis of Saint Francis’s radical love for creation and the Pope’s guidance of the modern Church. On many variations of the medal, Saint Francis is depicted alongside symbols of his ministry, such as the Tau cross or the stigmata, symbolizing peace and humility. Conversely, Pope Paul VI is often shown in a formal apostolic light, sometimes accompanied by Saint Peter to emphasize the continuity of the papacy.

With detailed Italian craftsmanship, this specific medal depicts Saint Paul VI on the front and Saint Francis of Assisi on the back. Pope Paul VI's formal portrait shows his profile side image, surrounded by a short legend noting "Pope Paul VI," who notably professed as a Franciscan in the Third Order of Saint Francis of Assisi. The reverse features a traditional depiction of Saint Francis bracing himself with both hands on his chest while holding a long crucifix, leaning his head down in a solemn posture of prayer. Below this image, the word "ITALY" is inscribed, serving as a definitive provenance for the medal and marking its origin in the heart of the Catholic world.

Saint Paul VI was a key Pope for the Secular Franciscan Order (OFS) because he approved its Rule in 1978, defining the path for lay people who wish to live the Franciscan charism in the world, inspired by simplicity, poverty, and the Gospel. He was a precursor of the missionary spirit and fraternity that his successors, such as Pope Francis, have continued to promote among the laity.

His relationship with the Secular Franciscans. Approval of the Rule: Saint Paul VI promulgated the Rule of the Secular Franciscan Order (OFS) in 1978, a fundamental document that guides lay people and diocesan clergy in their Franciscan vocation.

Witness and example: Inspired by Saint Francis of Assisi, Paul VI saw in the laity a way to bring the Gospel to the world from their own environments, bearing witness to peace and universal fraternity.

Legacy: His pontificate opened paths for the papacy (travel, dialogue) and his figure encouraged the secular Franciscans to be part of a "Church on the move", living holiness in everyday life.

Get a set of 3 restored images, now on sale

This image is a public domain image, which means either that copyright has expired in the image or the copyright holder has waived their copyright. Franciscan Gallery charges for the access to high resolution copy of the image. Manually restoration was necessary in order to improve quality, without covering the original image.