For the Franciscan Transitus Celebration
On the evening of October 3rd, we commemorate St. Francis of Assisi’s passage (Transitus) into eternal life.
Opening Hymn & Procession
Participants may gather in a dimly lit chapel, church, or outdoor setting. Candles may be distributed to symbolise the light of Christ. A statue, icon, or relic of St. Francis may be processed in, followed by ministers and readers.
Suggested Opening Hymns:
- All Creatures of Our God and King
- Canticle of the Sun
- Make Me a Channel of Your Peace
Leader:
“My brothers and sisters, this night we gather to remember the passing of our beloved father, St. Francis of Assisi, into eternal life. We recall his final moments, his love for Christ, and his joy in embracing ‘Sister Death.’ As we celebrate this Transitus, may we be inspired to follow his way of humility, peace, and perfect joy.”
Opening Prayer:
“Most High and Glorious God, You called St. Francis to live the Gospel with joy and simplicity. As we remember his Transitus, open our hearts to Your presence, that we too may embrace life’s journey with faith, hope, and love. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.”
First Reading – The Death of St. Francis
(From The Life of St. Francis by St. Bonaventure)
Reader:
“Seeing that the time of his death was near, Francis called his brothers to him and comforted them with words of peace. Desiring to imitate Christ in all things, he asked to be laid naked on the ground, covered only by a simple habit. As he lay there, he blessed his brothers and praised the Lord with joy, calling on Sister Death with a song of praise.”
“I have done what was mine to do, may Christ now teach you what is yours to do.”
(Pause for silent reflection.)
Psalm 142 – The Last Prayer of St. Francis
Reader: “Before his passing, Francis listened to the words of Psalm 142, entrusting himself fully to God.”
(Participants recite the psalm together.)
Psalm 142:
“With my voice, I cry to the Lord;
With my voice, I make supplication to the Lord.
I pour out my complaint before Him;
I tell my trouble before Him.
When my spirit is faint, You know my way.
In the path where I walk, they have hidden a trap for me.
I look to the right and watch— but there is no one who takes notice of me;
No refuge remains to me; no one cares for me.
I cry to You, O Lord; I say, ‘You are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living.’
Give heed to my cry, for I am brought very low.
Deliver me from my persecutors, for they are too strong for me!
Bring me out of prison, so that I may give thanks to Your name.
The righteous will surround me, for You will deal bountifully with me.”
(A moment of silent reflection follows.)
Second Reading – The Canticle of Brother Sun
Reader:
“Even in the face of death, Francis sang of God’s goodness and the beauty of all creation. Let us listen to his song of praise.”
Canticle of the Creatures (Adapted Excerpt):
“Most High, all-powerful, good Lord,
Yours are the praises, the glory, and the honor.
Praised be You, my Lord, with all Your creatures,
Especially Brother Sun, who is the day and through whom You give us light.
Praised be You, my Lord, through Sister Moon and the stars;
In heaven You formed them bright and precious and beautiful.
Praised be You, my Lord, through our Sister Mother Earth,
Who sustains and governs us and produces various fruits with coloured flowers and herbs.
Praised be You, my Lord, through Sister Death,
From whom no one living can escape.
Blessed are those whom death finds doing Your most holy will.
For the second death shall do them no harm.”
(Pause for reflection.)
Gospel Reading
John 13:1-17 (The Washing of the Feet)
Reader: “Before his death, Jesus washed the feet of his disciples, teaching them the way of humility and service. Francis followed this example with joy.”
A reading from the Holy Gospel according to John:
“Before the feast of Passover, Jesus knew that His hour had come to pass from this world to the Father… He got up from the table, took off His outer robe, and tied a towel around Himself. Then He poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet…”
The Gospel of the Lord.
“Praise to You, Lord Jesus Christ.”
Francis’s Final Blessing
Leader:
“Before his passing, Francis blessed his brothers one last time. Let us now receive this blessing as if from his lips.”
All Recite Together:
“I bless you all in my life and after my death, as much as I can and more than I can.
May the Lord be with you always, and may He grant that you may always be with Him.”
Lighting of Candles & Moment of Reflection
Each participant lights a candle, symbolising the passing of Francis into eternal light. Soft instrumental music or silence follows.
(Optional: Participants may share reflections on how Francis’s life inspires them.)
Closing Prayer & Sending Forth
Leader:
“Let us pray. Almighty and ever-living God, You granted St. Francis the grace to embrace Sister Death with joy and trust. As we remember his Transitus, strengthen our hearts to live as he did—humbly, joyfully, and in love with You. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.”
Final Hymn & Dismissal
Suggested Closing Hymns:
- Holy God, We Praise Thy Name
- The Servant Song
- Peace Prayer of St. Francis
Leader:
“Go forth in peace, carrying the light of Christ as St. Francis did. Pax et Bonum!”
All Respond:
“Pax et Bonum!” (Peace and all good!)
