“Lord, help me to live this day, quietly, easily. To lean upon Thy great strength, trustfully, restfully. To wait for the unfolding of Thy will, patiently, serenely. To meet others, peacefully, joyously. To face tomorrow, confidently, courageously.”
Saint Francis of Assisi
Jubilee Year of St. Francis
Pope Leo XIV declared January 10, 2026 through January 10, 2027 a special Franciscan Jubilee Year to mark the 800th anniversary of the death of St. Francis of Assisi. This special year invites Catholics and all people of goodwill to live the gift of peace, which “is the sum of all God’s gifts” says Pope Leo in a letter addressed to the Franciscan Family.
The hope of the year is that the example and spiritual legacy of Saint Francis and his message of peace find a “profound echo in the Church and society today.”
“Give us the courage to build bridges where the world raises up boundaries,” says Pope Leo in a prayer to Saint Francis. “In this time afflicted by conflict and division, intercede for us so that we may become peacemakers.”
KEY THEMES
Peace with God Returning to the gospel and a life of simple essential faith.
Peace among humanity Building bridges where the world raises boundaries and becoming “unarmed witnesses” of Christ.
Peace with creation Rediscovering our kinship with all creatures for our common home.
HOW TO PARTICPATE
Make a pilgrimage Visit any Franciscan church or place of worship dedicated to Saint Francis anywhere in the world.
Devout meditation Spend time in prayer.
Usual conditions Fulfill the requirements of Confession, Communion, and prayer for the pope’s intentions.
KEY DATES
October 3, 2026 The 800th Anniversary of the Transitus (Passing) of Saint Francis.
October 4, 2026 Feast Day of Saint Francis
In this age, marked by so many seemingly interminable wars, by internal and social divisions that create mistrust and fear, Saint Francis continues to speak. Not because he offers technical solutions, but because his life points to the authentic source of peace. -Pope Leo XIV