For the first time in 800 years, the mortal remains of St Francis of Assisi are on extended public display.
The monthlong veneration, drawing some 370,000 registered pilgrims to the Basilica of St Francis in Assisi, marks the 800th anniversary of the saint’s death in 1226 and runs through 22 March.
Pilgrims from around the world lined up on 22 February for the first day of public veneration to pray before the bones of “the Little Poor Man of Assisi.”
“St Francis is by far the most important saint in my life. He’s shown up for me in so many ways and so many dark moments,” Heather Martin, an American living in Assisi, told OSV News.
“This experience to be able to go and physically see his physical form has been utterly life-changing.” Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime called the exposition “an event of extraordinary grace,” adding,
“This body, fragile and poor, reminds us that the Gospel is also lived with the body, with real choices, with daily gestures.”
“If our heart becomes more Franciscan, we become makers of peace,” Brother Jimmy Zammit said, urging Catholics worldwide to live the saint’s legacy.
