This year marks the 800th anniversary of the death of Saint Francis of Assisi—a moment the Franciscan tradition calls his Transitus, his “passing over” from death into life. For Francis, death was not an end, but a homecoming—an entrance into the fullness of life with God. To commemorate this anniversary, Pope Francis has designated a special Holy Year for the entire Church. During this time, all Franciscan churches throughout the world are recognized as places of pilgrimage, where the faithful may receive the grace of a plenary indulgence. That means something quietly remarkable: Every time you walk into this church, you are stepping into a designated place of pilgrimage. In addition, the Archbishop of Brooklyn has formally named our parish as a diocesan pilgrimage site, highlighting in a special way the spiritual significance of what is already true here. How we will mark this year: • A relocated statue of Saint Francis in the church, inviting personal prayer and devotion • A reflective presentation of the Canticle of the Creatures, composed by Saint Francis 800 years ago, with opportunities for meditation  • Cultural and spiritual events throughout the year, celebrating Franciscan spirituality and joy Save the Date: October 3 – Transitus of Saint Francis (solemn celebration of his passing from death to life) October 4 – Feast of Saint Francis (celebrated with special solemnity, including the traditional Blessing of Animals) This Holy Year is not just  about remembering the past.  It is an invitation—to rediscover  the simplicity, joy, and radical  trust in God that marked the  life of Saint Francis. https://static.wixstatic.com/media/f0db2b_f34940cf94264ed4bb39d553d4734f76~mv2.png

This church is a designated place for the plenary indulgence granted by Pope Leo XIV during the Year of Saint Francis. How to Receive the Indulgence • Visit this Franciscan church with faith and a sincere desire to turn your heart toward God • Participate in Mass or spend time in prayer here • Pray the Our Father, the Creed, and for the intentions of the Holy Father • Receive Sacramental Confession and Holy Communion within several days of your visit • Be free from attachment to sin The indulgence may be received for yourself or offered for the faithful departed. What does a plenary indulgence do? A plenary indulgence removes the spiritual effects that remain after sin is forgiven, restoring the heart to full freedom in God’s mercy.

This year marks the 800th anniversary of the death of St. Francis of Assisi. To mark the occasion Pope Leo has proclaimed a Jubilee Year of St. Francis from January 10, 2026 to January 10, 2027. As part of this Jubilee the tomb of St. Francis in Assisi was opened for a recognition of his remains and veneration by the faithful. The Very Reverend Michael Heine, OFM Conv, Minister Provincial of Our Lady of the Angels Province (pictured, in prayer, touching the remains of St. Francis) carried with him the prayers and concerns of all the friars of our province and of the men and women we serve in our parishes, schools and ministries. Various special events will take place during this year of Jubilee including the Plenary Indulgence granted by Pope Leo to anyone who visits a Franciscan church. Friar Michael Heine was recently re-elected as Minister Provincial by the friars. He will lead the Province as it gathers in its Ordinary Provincial Chapter in May and July to review the last 4 years and to plan for the future of the friars. Our Lady of the Angels Province of the Friars Minor Conventual spans along the east of the United States and Canada from Ontario to Florida and includes a presence in Brazil, the UK and Ireland. https://static.wixstatic.com/media/f0db2b_bbbdb4dea9424010a1e557ef544be5ff~mv2.jpg

https://static.wixstatic.com/media/f0db2b_701616e0922d4aeaaf00df3fcf5133dd~mv2.jpg Make your pledge today at www.annualcatholicappeal.org,(http://www.annualcatholicappeal.org) click the link on this page, or text DONATE to 917-336-1255