Voyage Publishing has released a new graphic novel titled “Francis: Herald of the Great King” to coincide with the 800th anniversary of St. Francis of Assisi’s death. The publication aligns with Pope Leo XIV’s designation of 2026 as a Jubilee year honoring the 13th-century saint.

The 44-page comic traces the spiritual transformation of Francis, the son of a wealthy cloth merchant who died in 1226. The narrative begins with Francis depicted in armor, wielding a sword as a soldier. It then follows his journey through conversion dreams, an encounter with a leper, and a pivotal moment where Jesus speaks to him within a chapel.

Faithful Production and Oversight

Philip Kosloski, the author and founder of Voyage Publishing, developed the graphic novel with guidance from a team of Franciscan advisors. This group includes Fr. Paschal Mary, MFVA, of EWTN. The work carries both a priestly Nihil Obstat and a bishop’s Imprimatur, indicating ecclesiastical approval for its content.

Kosloski emphasized the company’s commitment to traditional creative methods. Voyage Publishing has pledged never to use artificial intelligence in the production of its comics. This stance distinguishes the title from other digital media that increasingly rely on automated generation tools.

Spiritual Application

The release offers a visual entry point for Catholics seeking to engage with the Jubilee year. The Church grants plenary indulgences to those who participate in pilgrimages to Franciscan churches or unite spiritually with such acts during this period.

Kosloski connected the saint’s radical detachment to modern life. He noted that while few are called to strip off their clothes in public squares as Francis did, many are invited to release attachments to contemporary distractions.

“God may not be calling us to strip our clothes off in the town square (as Francis did), but he certainly may be calling us to let go of those things that we are attached to in this life, whether it is video games, YouTube videos, or even social media,” Kosloski said.

The graphic novel is available for purchase through Voyage Comics and Publishing. It serves as a resource for readers looking to reflect on the life of St. Francis during this significant anniversary year.