The remains of St. Francis of Assisi, one of Catholicism's most revered figures, will be exhumed and publicly displayed early next year. This rare event marks the 800th anniversary of his death. The exposition will take place in his hometown of Assisi, Italy, at the Basilica of St. Francis.
The announcement, made by Vatican News on October 4, coincides with St. Francis's feast day. This period will allow pilgrims and the public to view the saint's body for an extended time, a first of its kind.
Key Takeaways
- St. Francis's remains will be displayed from February 22 to March 22.
- The exposition marks the 800th anniversary of his death.
- The event will occur at the Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi, Italy.
- Visitors will require a free online reservation to view the remains.
- St. Francis is the patron saint of animals, the environment, and one of Italy's two patron saints.
Rare Public Exposition of St. Francis
The remains of St. Francis of Assisi will be moved from his tomb for a month-long public display. This event is scheduled from February 22 to March 22 of next year. The chosen location for the display is the foot of the papal altar within the Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi, a significant site in his life.
Vatican News, the official news outlet of the Vatican, reported this development on October 4. This date is historically important as it is the feast day of St. Francis. On this day, Catholics typically celebrate the saint's legacy and often participate in traditions like bringing pets to church for blessings.
Saint Francis Quick Facts
- Born: 1181/1182 in Assisi, Italy
- Died: October 3, 1226, in Assisi, Italy
- Canonized: July 16, 1228, by Pope Gregory IX
- Patron Saint Of: Animals, environment, merchants, Italy
- Legacy: Founded the Franciscan Order, inspired many religious communities
Significance of St. Francis
St. Francis is among the most venerated figures in Catholicism. He is widely recognized as the patron saint of animals and the environment. Additionally, he holds the distinction of being one of Italy's two patron saints. His life spanned from the late 12th century to the early 13th century, concluding with his death in 1226.
During his lifetime, St. Francis founded or inspired several religious orders. Many of these orders continue their work today, reflecting his enduring influence. His impact is so profound that in 2013, when Jorge Mario Bergoglio was elected pope, he chose Francis as his papal name. This marked the first time in history a pontiff adopted this name, doing so in honor of St. Francis of Assisi.
"The exposition in Italy slated for early next year will be the first time St. Francis’ remains will be displayed to the public for an extended period of time," according to Vatican News.
St. Francis and San Francisco
While St. Francis himself never traveled to the city that would eventually bear his name, his connections to the region date back to the earliest European settlements in California. These ties highlight the spread of his religious order and its influence across continents.
Historical Context: Franciscan Influence in California
Spanish Franciscan missionaries played a pivotal role in the early European history of California. They established numerous missions, which served as centers for religious conversion, agriculture, and cultural exchange. These missions often provided the foundation for future towns and cities across the state.
In 1776, Spanish Franciscan missionaries founded the Misión San Francisco de Asís. This mission was established in what is now known as the Mission District of modern-day San Francisco. This occurred seven decades before San Francisco was incorporated as a city and California became a state.
The mission later became more widely known as Mission Dolores. This name was adopted from a nearby creek, as stated on its official website. The arrival of new residents in 1849, driven by the California Gold Rush, led to the establishment of another Catholic church. This new church, borrowing the saint's name, was founded in North Beach: the St. Francis of Assisi Church. In 1999, this church was designated the National Shrine of St. Francis of Assisi, further cementing the saint's legacy in the city.
Visiting the Exposition in Assisi
For those planning to visit Assisi to view the saint's remains, a free online reservation will be mandatory. This requirement ensures organized access for all visitors. The organizers will also provide accommodations for individuals with visual or physical impairments, aiming for inclusive access.
During the exposition period, two international Masses will be celebrated daily. These services will take place at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m., running from Monday through Saturday. This information was also confirmed by Vatican News. The event is expected to draw a significant number of pilgrims and tourists from around the world, reflecting the global reverence for St. Francis.
Artistic Depictions of St. Francis
The Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi is also home to significant artworks depicting the saint's life. Giotto di Bondone, a renowned Renaissance artist, painted frescoes illustrating the life of St. Francis of Assisi. One notable fresco, "Death of St. Francis and Inspection of Stigmata," created around the 1320s, is displayed in the Bardi Chapel in the Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence, Italy.
Other frescoes by Giotto in the Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi, depicting St. Francis and St. Clair, suffered damage during a 1997 earthquake. Some were reportedly destroyed in a subsequent temblor. These artworks are an integral part of the basilica's historical and cultural value, drawing visitors interested in both art and religious history.
The upcoming exposition provides a unique opportunity for people to connect with the historical and spiritual significance of St. Francis. It also highlights the enduring impact of his life and teachings eight centuries after his death.
This event is a significant moment for the Catholic Church and for cultural heritage. It offers a chance to reflect on the values St. Francis championed, such as compassion for all creatures and dedication to the environment.
