Pope Leo XIV has proclaimed a special Jubilee Year marking the 800th anniversary of the death of St. Francis of Assisi—a moment of grace for the Church and for all who seek a deeper commitment to peace, humility and love for God’s creation.
The Jubilee formally began on January 10, 2026, following the conclusion of the Church’s 2025 Jubilee Year. Celebrations opened at the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels in Assisi, home to the Chapel of the Transit where St. Francis died. Archbishop Domenico Sorrentino described the opening as “an explosion of true joy”—a joy born of rediscovering Francis in all his dimensions and, ultimately, rediscovering Christ, the true source of peace.
Among the most significant events of the Jubilee Year is the first public display of St. Francis of Assisi’s body. With papal permission, the saint’s remains were available for veneration from February 22 to March 26. More than 370,000 pilgrims registered—a powerful testament to the enduring and universal appeal of Francis’ life and message.
For the Felician Sisters, this Jubilee is an opportunity to reflect personally and communally on the life and witness of St. Francis. As members of the Third Order of St. Francis, the sisters are invited to consider Francis’ love for creation, his respect for all creatures and his commitment to peace and humility.
For some, this might mean deepening prayer for peace in the world, in their communities and in their own hearts. For others, it may inspire living more simply, in harmony with Christ’s example, and caring for our common home.
Sr. Elaine Marie Frigo, who visited Assisi on February 25, shared the profound impact of the experience: “I saw people who came with mild interest transform into silent, reflective participants. The day included viewing the remains of St. Francis, listening to a Conventual friar speak about him, receiving the Sacrament of Confession, and spending time in prayer. It was a graced moment for me and for many others.”
Through this Jubilee, the Felician Sisters are reminded that living Franciscan spirituality today is both a personal journey and a communal witness—a call to walk humbly, love generously and live as peacemakers. As the year unfolds, sisters across the province will find ways, large and small, to honor St. Francis’ example in their ministries, communities and daily lives.
Look for more reflections on how the Jubilee Year of St. Francis is inspiring the Felician Sisters in the fall issue of Felician magazine.
