“Hold fast to the memory of our father and brother, Francis…”—these words invite us into a year of grace rooted in remembrance, gratitude, and hope. As the Church reflects on the life of Saint Francis of Assisi, we are reminded that holiness is not distant or unattainable, but alive and present among us. Following the recently concluded Jubilee Year of 2025, which called us to be “pilgrims of hope,” the Church now opens a new chapter: the Year of Saint Francis (January 10, 2026–January 10, 2027). This special year marks the 800th anniversary of Francis’ passing into eternal life and invites us to deepen the hope we have received, allowing it to take root in lives of joyful discipleship and active charity.

The life of Saint Francis of Assisi continues to shine as a light for our own time. Born into wealth, he chose a life of poverty, humility, and radical trust in Christ, becoming a living image of the Gospel. In a world not unlike our own—marked by division, distraction, and a longing for peace—Francis’ witness calls us back to what truly matters: love of God, love of neighbor, and reverence for all creation. His legacy has already been celebrated in recent years through jubilees honoring the Nativity scene at Greccio, the Canticle of the Creatures, and the gift of the Stigmata. Now, in this culminating year, we are invited not only to admire Francis, but to imitate him—to become, in our own way, instruments of peace and bearers of Christ’s light in the world.

At the heart of this year is the powerful message of mercy. In his writings, Francis urged that no one should leave without experiencing forgiveness if they sincerely seek it. This spirit lives on in the grace of the “Pardon of Assisi,” a reminder that God’s mercy is abundant and freely given. During this Year of Saint Francis, the Church offers the gift of a plenary indulgence to all the faithful who participate in pilgrimage, prayer, and the sacraments, or who unite themselves spiritually if they are unable to travel. It is an invitation to renewal—for ourselves and for the whole world. May this year move us beyond good intentions into lives of compassion, reconciliation, and peace, so that, like Francis, we may reflect Christ more clearly each day.

Pope Leo’s Prayer to St. Francis of Assisi

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 recognized 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