Blessed Agnellus of Pisa – Franciscan Founder in England and Oxford Educator

BLESSED . ANGNELLUS OF PISA

Blessed Agnellus of Pisa was a Franciscan friar born around 1195 in Pisa. A close disciple of Saint Francis, he founded the Franciscan Province in England and established a friary and school in Oxford. Renowned for his humility and leadership, he died on May 7, 1236.

Blessed Agnellus of Pisa was born around the year 1195 into a noble family in Pisa, Italy. At a young age, he encountered Saint Francis of Assisi and became one of his earliest followers. Known for his humility, obedience, and dedication to the Franciscan ideals of poverty and simplicity, Agnellus quickly gained the trust of Saint Francis, who entrusted him with important missions.

Around 1219, Francis sent Agnellus to Paris to help establish the Franciscan presence there. Agnellus’s leadership and fidelity made a lasting impression. Later, in 1224, Saint Francis personally appointed him to lead the first Franciscan mission to England. Along with a small group of friars, Agnellus traveled to England and established the first friary in Canterbury. With support from local clergy and nobility, including King Henry III, he soon founded other friaries in London, Oxford, and Cambridge.

Perhaps his most enduring contribution was founding the Franciscan house of studies at Oxford, where he helped integrate Franciscan spirituality with academic life. Under his guidance, the Franciscans became influential in the intellectual and religious life of England. He was known for refusing extravagant buildings, insisting on modest, functional dwellings for the friars in accordance with the Rule of Saint Francis.

Agnellus was not only a spiritual leader but also a peacemaker. He was sent to mediate during political disputes, including conflicts involving the English crown. In all matters, he acted with calmness, charity, and deep faith. His personal holiness deeply impressed both clergy and laity.

He died in Oxford on May 7, 1236, possibly of dysentery. Witnesses reported that he died peacefully, calling on the name of Jesus. His body was buried before the high altar of the Franciscan church in Oxford, and was later reported to be incorrupt. His cult grew steadily, and although never formally canonized as a saint, Pope Leo XIII confirmed his longstanding veneration and declared him "Blessed" in 1882.

Blessed Agnellus is remembered for his role in planting the Franciscan Order in England, for his scholarship, humility, and peaceful spirit. His feast is celebrated on May 7, particularly within the Franciscan community and in England.

Feast Day

13-3-

Birth Date

--

Died Date

--1236

Canonised Date

--1882 (beatified by Pope Leo XIII)

Oxford Friary, England

Blessed Agnellus of Pisa, faithful servant of God and humble son of Saint Francis, you brought the light of Christ to England and guided your brothers in wisdom and holiness. Help us to live in peace, simplicity, and service. Through your intercession, may we grow in faith and love. Amen.
BLESSED . ANGNELLUS OF PISA

Video Not Found

BLESSED . ANGNELLUS OF PISA

The information on this website is compiled from various trusted sources. While we aim for accuracy, some details may be incomplete or contain discrepancies.

If you notice any errors or have additional information about this saint, please use the form on the left to share your suggestions. Your input helps us improve and maintain reliable content for everyone.

All submissions are reviewed carefully, and your personal details will remain confidential. Thank you for contributing to the accuracy and value of this resource.

Credits & Acknowledgments

Anudina Visudhar (Malayalam) – Life of Saints for Everyday
by Msgr. Thomas Moothedan, M.A., D.D.
Saint Companions for Each Day
by A. J. M. Mausolfe & J. K. Mausolfe
US Catholic (Faith in Real Life) – Informational articles
Wikipedia – General reference content and images
Anastpaul.com – Saint images and reflections
Pravachaka Sabdam (Malayalam) – Saint-related content and insights

We sincerely thank these authors and platforms for their valuable contributions. If we have unintentionally missed any attribution, please notify us, and we will make the correction promptly.