Year of St Francis
Pope Leo XIV has declared a special Jubilee year to commemorate the 800th anniversary of St. Francis of
Assisi’s death; from 10 January 2026, to 10 January 2027.
We are proudly celebrating the Year of Francis of Assisi, a time to reflect on his enduring message of humility, compassion and care for all creation. Inspired by St Francis’ deep love for the natural world and his commitment to peace and service, we invite our community to live out these values in our daily lives.
This special year also resonates with the guidance of Pope Leo, whose call for unity, social responsibility, and stewardship of the Earth echoes the Franciscan spirit. Together, we embrace this opportunity to grow in kindness, deepen our faith, and strengthen our commitment to one another and the world around us.
A prayer for the Jubilee Year of St Francis
Pope Leo XIV had announced that 2026 is a Jubilee Year of St. Francis, to commemorate the 800th anniversary of the saint’s death.
The Holy Father has offered this prayer for the occasion:
Saint Francis, our brother, you who eight hundred years ago
went to meet Sister Death as a man at peace,
intercede for us before the Lord.
You recognised true peace in the Crucifix of San Damiano,
teach us to seek in Him the source of all reconciliation
that breaks down every wall.
You who, unarmed, crossed the lines of war
and misunderstanding,
give us the courage to build bridges
where the world raises up boundaries.
In this time afflicted by conflict and division,
intercede for us so that we may become peacemakers:
unarmed and disarming witnesses of the peace that comes from Christ.
Amen
Saint Francis of Assisi is known for his profound love for animals and nature, serving as a model for environmental stewardship and compassion. Born into a wealthy family in Italy in the late 12th century, he renounced his possessions to live a life of poverty, founded the Franciscan Order, and is remembered for his preaching to animals.
Life:
Born around 1181 or 1182 in Assisi, Italy, he was the son of a wealthy cloth merchant.
Vow:
He famously gave up his wealthy lifestyle to follow God and live in poverty, attracting many followers who formed the Franciscan Order.
Legacy:
He is known for his deep love for all of God's creation, leading to his patronage of animals and the environment.
Canonization:
He was canonized as a saint in 1228, just two years after his death.
Stewardship:
His life exemplifies the stewardship of creation, inspiring students to care for God's world.
Love for the Poor:
He also demonstrated a strong devotion to helping the poor and vulnerable.
Connection to Animals:
Many children find it relatable and inspiring that he is believed to have spoken with animals.
Role Model:
He is a role model for following Christ's teachings and living a life of peace and compassion.
Key Facts:
- Feast Day: October 4th.
- Patron Saint Of: Animals, ecology, and the environment.
- Famous Work: His famous prayer, "The Canticle of Creatures".