Catholic Identity

As we look to celebrate the Feast of St Francis of Assisi as a school community in Semester Two, the following article by Heather Excell (Archdiocese of Hobart) points out the significance of 2026 to Franciscans worldwide.

The Basilica of St. Francis, site of the St’s tomb, in Assisi, Italy, is seen in this 2007 file photo. (CNS photo/Gregory A. Shemitz, Long Island Catholic)

Catholics around the world are invited to mark the 800th anniversary of the death of St Francis of Assisi with a Jubilee Year, which began on 10 January 2026 and will continue until 10 January 2027.

Proclaimed by Pope Leo XIV, the Jubilee is the culmination of recent centenary celebrations connected to the saint, including the commemoration of the first Nativity scene, the composition of the Canticle of the Creatures, and the reception of the stigmata.

Pope Leo noted that St Francis’ message of peace is needed now more than ever.

“In this age, marked by so many seemingly interminable wars, by internal and social divisions that create mistrust and fear, he continues to speak,” the Pope said. “Not because he offers technical solutions, but because his life points to the authentic source of peace.”

The Pope encouraged the faithful to imitate St Francis and his profound love for Christ as a way of growing in faith. Specific emphasis was also placed on the saint’s humility, simplicity and charity.