Franciscan Jubilee Year 2026

January 10, 2026 – January 10, 2027

Pope Leo XIV has officially declared a special Franciscan Jubilee Year to mark the eighth centenary of the passing of St. Francis of Assisi. Following the global celebration of the 2025 Holy Year, this special year invites us to move from the "hope" of the pilgrims into the "active charity" exemplified by the Saint of Assisi.

A Message from the Holy Father

In his letter to the Franciscan Family, Pope Leo XIV emphasized that St. Francis remains a "beacon of light" for our modern world, particularly in our search for peace and environmental healing.

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

Key Themes of the Jubilee

The Pope has highlighted three "inseparable dimensions" for this year:

• Peace with God: A return to the Gospel and a life of simple, essential faith.

• Peace among Humanity: Building bridges where the world raises boundaries and becoming "unarmed witnesses" of Christ.

• Peace with Creation: Rediscovering our kinship with all creatures and caring for our "common home."

Quotes for Reflection by pope Leo XIV

• "Peace is not a formula of courtesy, but the certain proclamation of Christ's victory over death."

• "Francis shows us that true evangelization begins with respect, listening, and genuine human encounter."

• "Give us the courage to build bridges where the world raises up boundaries. In this time afflicted by conflict and division... make us peacemakers."

How to Participate

The Holy See has granted a Plenary Indulgence for the duration of this Jubilee Year. To receive this grace, the faithful are invited to:

1.  Make a Pilgrimage: Visit any Franciscan church or place of worship dedicated to St. Francis anywhere in the world.

2.  Devout Meditation: Spend time in prayer, reciting the Lord’s Prayer and the Creed.

3.  Usual Conditions: Fulfill the requirements of Sacramental Confession, Eucharistic Communion, and prayer for the Pope's intentions.

Note for the Homebound: The elderly and sick may also obtain the indulgence by spiritually joining the celebrations and offering their sufferings and prayers to God.

Key Dates to Remember

• January 10, 2026: Official opening of the Jubilee at the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels (Assisi).

• February 22 – March 22, 2026: Exceptional public display of the body of St. Francis in Assisi.

• October 3, 2026: The 800th Anniversary of the Transitus (Passing) of St. Francis.

• January 10, 2027: Formal closing of the Franciscan Jubilee Year.