800th Anniversary Celebration of St. Francis of Assisi

On Sunday, October 4, St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Pinawa will join Catholics around the world in celebrating the 800th Anniversary of the death of St. Francis of Assisi. The celebration will include Mass at 2:00 p.m. celebrated by Archbishop  Legatt

Who Was St. Francis of Assisi?

St. Francis of Assisi (1181-1226) was a wealthy young man who gave up everything to follow Christ, embracing a life of poverty, humility, prayer, and love for God's creation. He founded the Franciscan Order and remains one of the most beloved saints in the Church because of his joyful witness to the Gospel.

Why Is St. Francis Parish in Pinawa Celebrating This Feast in a Special Way?

St. Francis Parish is named after St. Francis of Assisi and has been granted the privilege of housing a relic of St. Francis, received through the Archdiocese of St. Boniface. The presence of this relic makes the parish a special place of pilgrimage during this anniversary year and allows the faithful to deepen their connection with this great saint.

What Is an Indulgence?

An indulgence is a special grace granted by the Church that removes the temporal punishment due to sins that have already been forgiven in Confession. It draws upon the treasury of grace won by Christ and the saints and helps us grow in holiness and purification.

How Can You Receive the Plenary Indulgence?

To receive the indulgence connected with this anniversary celebration, the faithful should:

• Visit St. Francis Parish and participate devoutly in the celebration.

• Receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation within a reasonable time before or after the visit.

• Receive Holy Communion.

• Pray for the intentions of the Holy Father (for example, an Our Father and Hail Mary).

• Be free from attachment to sin, even venial sin.

If all these conditions are met, a plenary indulgence may be obtained for oneself or offered for a deceased soul.