Transitus of St. Francis of Assisi 2023

“To ritually revisit the story of Francis’ passing is vital; without it something significant is missing. It specifies the living memory of Francis; it intensifies our commitment to follow Christ in the way of the poor man of Assisi.”
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- Secular Franciscan Order (USA)

On Tuesday, October 3, our parish celebrated the vigil of St. Francis of Assisi’s death which is called the Transitus. The word comes from Latin meaning passage or crossing. Remembering the passing of St. Francis from this life into God is an important part of Franciscan spirituality. The Conventual Franciscan Friars and Secular Franciscans from our parish along with the Franciscans of the Eucharist welcomed everyone to join them in celebrating this special evening at Saint Ita church!

Honoring the death of their founding father with special readings and music is a tradition unique of the Franciscan order. Throughout the evening, the lights in the church dimmed until there was almost complete darkness. The final candle left represented the life of St. Francis. In closing, participants were invited to light a small votive candle from that candle and lay it next to the habit representing St. Francis. This symbolized the message of St. Francis living on in all of us. It was a beautiful and solemn ceremony.

Click below to see images from the evening.