Rome, May 31, 2025
Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary
To all National Franciscan Families.
Dear brothers and sisters of every national Franciscan Family,
The Lord give you peace!
We, the Franciscan Family, are currently experiencing years of grace and deep reflection, stimulated by the Centenaries of the Rule, the Greccio Crib, the Stigmata and the Canticle of the Creatures.
In 2026, we will commemorate the 800th anniversary of the Transitus of St. Francis of Assisi.
The 8th centenary of the Easter of St. Francis can be a chance to bring the Poverello of Assisi into “the streets and squares” of every part of the world, exposing his life, mission and spirituality to those unfamiliar with his story. We have a powerful opportunity to draw others into the Franciscan Spirit. As the Franciscan Family, we join together to creatively share St. Francis with every person we meet in every place possible.
Organizing something together will also be a prophetic sign of unity and hope, responding to the call of the universal Church in this Jubilee year. Francis of Assisi was the ultimate pilgrim of hope.
The General Committee of the Franciscan Family for the Franciscan Centenaries is offering to help in international efforts, where it is possible to organize events open to all, involving every national Franciscan Family. The General Committee would like to initiate a dialogue among us and with those who are not Franciscans, to plan an event that would build fraternal relationships and make St. Francis of Assisi even more widely known.
Read more: Letter in English