The ‘Blessed Transitus’ of Saint Francis

The Franciscan Family is commemorating the blessed transitus, or death, of Saint Francis of Assisi, marking 800 years since the patron saint of Italy passed away. This 2026 commemoration follows annual observances of significant events in his life, including the creation of the nativity scene in Greccio in 2023, the miracle of the stigmata in 2024, and the Canticle of Brother Sun in 2025.

The commemoration coincides with the reestablishment of October 4 as a national holiday in Italy, which had been abolished in 1977.

Giancarlo Pani SJ notes that Francis' final days were defined by his desire to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ and imitate his footsteps. As he sensed his death was near, Francis requested that the Gospel passage regarding the washing of the feet be read to him. Francis used this moment to exhort his followers that no one should be called prior, but only Friars Minor, and that members of the community should wash one another's feet.