The “Jubilee Year of St. Francis” was proclaimed by Pope Leo XIV to commemorate the 800th anniversary of Francis’ death, October 4, 1226. The Pope’s Jubilee began on January 10, 2026, and continues through January 10, 2027, as a period of remembrance that invites spiritual seekers to ponder the life and influence of St. Francis as a means to deepen their own spiritual journeys. Francis’ spirituality was marked by simplicity, humility, action, and intimacy with Christ. In a time when the world is rife with conflict, division, and violence, it seems appropriate to consider Francis’ example; he modeled peace with God, with neighbors and enemies, and also with creation.
As I have long been a lover of Sts. Francis and Clare, and a writer of their lives and work, I will celebrate the Jubilee by sharing various Franciscan-related offerings throughout September and into October. (Hint: One special offering will be a self-guided short course called Franciscan Jubilee: Re-Ordering Your Soul. More info will be coming on that. )
Francis encouraged people to become models of holiness and ambassadors of peace. This Jubilee celebration is the invitation for each of us, in our own way, to spread the gifts of Francis and Clare to a world that is crying out for healing and light.
Stay tuned.