Angelo Tancredi was a 13th-century Franciscan monk and a member of the original group of twelve companions who followed Saint Francis of Assisi. Born in Rieti around 1190, he was a knight before his conversion. According to tradition, Francis encouraged him to exchange his military armor for a simple rope, leading him to join the religious life. He traveled extensively across Italy, France, and Spain while supporting the early Franciscan movement.
Life and conversion
Originally an armored knight from Rieti, Angelo reportedly met Francis, who invited him to become a knight of Christ. This encounter prompted him to abandon his military life for monasticism. During his travels through Europe, he was said to have witnessed the sermon to the birds and assisted Saint Clare in the founding of her religious order.
Veneration
He is recognized as a blessed in the Catholic Church. His memory is honored on his feast day, which is observed on February 13. As an early follower of the Franciscan tradition, he remains a significant figure in the history of the order's initial expansion.