The Transitus of St. Francis of Assisi ~ October 3rd
The Solemnity of Our Seraphic Father Francis ~ October 4th

Known as the Transitus (Latin: crossing/passage), the Vigil of the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi is celebrated by Franciscans all over the world with prayer, scripture readings, joyful songs of praise and thanksgiving. It is the night commemorating the death (in 1226) of our beloved Seraphic Father, as he crossed over from life on earth to eternal life with the Lord. Just as with all of the saints, he holds a special place in the Body of Christ, of which Christ is the Head (Colossians 1:18). Through intercessory prayers, saints in heaven (members of the Church who have arrived at perfect union with Christ) play an integral role in the life of the Church, by praying for those still on our earthly pilgrimage of faith.

Traditionally the celebration of a Saints’ Feast Day is marking the date of the saint’s death and is remembered by the faithful with special mention, prayers, and scripture readings.  For Franciscans, the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi (October 4th) is so much more. It is a day filled with celebration and joy, including the traditional Blessing of the Animals and gatherings of fellowship with our brothers and sisters, in Christ. Join our friars for the celebrations surrounding the Feast Day. To find contact information for our ministry nearest to you, please visit our Locations page.

One such celebration will be held at our Shrine of St. Anthony (Ellicott City, MD) and co-hosted by our student friars studying at The Catholic University of America (Washington DC).

Our province has two shrines where our friars serve. In addition to the Shrine of St. Anthony (Ellicott City, MD) we have a shrine in Fonda, NY ~ The Saint Kateri National Shrine and Historic Site. They will also host a Transitus celebration the night of October 3, 2018, including a 7:00 p.m. Candlelight Procession and service in the Shrine’s St. Peter’s Chapel. All are Welcome!