The Festival of Saint Francis of Assisi
Transitus of St. Francis
Thursday, October 3
7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
On the evening of October 3rd each year, Franciscans around the world celebrate “transitus,” or “passing” of St. Francis. Join the men and women of the D.C. area Franciscan family in the Monastery church, as we celebrate Saint Francis’ entrance into heaven, in a special prayer service.
The event will also be streamed live at https://myfranciscan.org/live/.
Feast of St. Francis (Three Morning Masses)
Friday, October 4
6:00 a.m., 7:00 a.m., and 10:30 a.m.
We invite you to celebrate with us the Feast of our Father St. Francis, the founder of the Franciscan order, on October 4.
Masses will be held at 6:00 a.m., 7:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.
Blessing of Animals
Saturday, October 5
10:00 a.m. to 12:00 Noon
Blessing at 11:00 a.m.
At the time of our founder’s feast, Franciscans bless animals to celebrate the great insight of the saint—that we can come to know God’s love for us, by praising God through his creatures. The friars of the Monastery welcome you to bring your pets for a blessing in our gardens.
The program is very simple: an introduction, an explanation of the blessing, the blessing, and distribution of pet medals.
“Praised be You my Lord with all Your creatures” – St. Francis of Assisi
“All-powerful God, you are present in the whole universe
and in the smallest of your creatures.
You embrace with your tenderness all that exists.”
from “A Prayer for Our Earth”
Encyclical Letter LAUDATO SI’
Pope Francis
“Father, we praise you with all your creatures.
They came forth from your all-powerful hand;
they are yours, filled with your presence and your tender love.”
from “A Christian Prayer in Union with Creation”
Encyclical Letter LAUDATO SI’
Pope Francis