The Lesser One - The Story of St. Francis

The Lesser One - The Story of St. Francis
by Bishop Jari Jolkkonen

Is less eventually more?
“The Lesser One - The Story of St Francis” is a TV documentary on one of the most famous characters of Christianity, St Francis of Assisi (1182-1226), whose messages hold contemporary value.
St Francis is known as a defender of a simple way of life and for his friendship with all creatures of nature. He was one of the first ones to challenge the belief that seeking wealth is the path to a happy life. His messages open new and alternative horizons to the modern world struggling with consumerism and climate change. Can we afford to ignore his messages?
Bishop Jari Jolkkonen walks us through the story of St. Francis and discusses the simple way of life, ecology and the dialogue between the faiths with Franciscan brothers.
There is a large volume of written material on St Francis, but he mainly taught through his own example and way of his life. St. Francis rejected wealth at the time modern capitalism took its first steps. His story is rugged but human. As a young adult he was no saint, had multiple conversions, was severely ill most of his life and eventually was sidelined from leadership of the order he had created.
The documentary contains rare footage from the UNESCO world heritage locations central to the life of St. Francis. The documentary takes the viewer to the Basilica of St. Francis, frescoes of Giotto and the library of Friars Minor Conventual (OFM Conv).
Script and narration: Bishop Jari Jolkkonen
Cinematographer & editor: Pekka Heikkilä
Director: Satu Väätäinen
Production Companies: The Lutheran Cultural Foundation & Finnish Broadcasting Company - YLE TV 1