Transitus is Latin for "passage" or "crossing." For the Franciscan religious community, it is synonymous with the observance of St. Francis' "crossing over" into God's reward of Eternal Life. Franciscan communities and Catholic faithful have marked the end of Francis' earthly life since his death in 1226. It is said St. Francis asked his brothers to lay him naked in the dirt so he could die in total poverty. After he embraced 'Sister Death,' a flock of larks - birds that are most active in the morning - gathered on the roof and began to sing, despite the late hour. Townspeople kept watch of Francis' body overnight and carried it from the Porziuncola to Assisi the next day, with crowds gathering to pray.

On October 3 Mary, Mother of God Parish celebrates the Transitus with a 'paraliturgical' service combining scripture, sacred music and prayer. The term "paraliturgical" describes an unofficial liturgy that does not follow a specific structure, creating a unique, moving experience each year.

​Join us at 7 PM on October 3 at Saint Ita church (5500 N. Broadway) as we observe the Transitus & mark the 800th Jubilee Year of St. Francis. 

Fr. Thomas Fetz, OFM Conv. explains the significance of Transitus celebrations -
read the full interview here!

Photos from previous years: