On the evening of October 3rd, Franciscans around the world will celebrate Transitus, which means passage in Latin. Saint Francis embraced Sister Death and looked forward to following Christ into eternal life, just as he followed Him on earth. He left us with these words:
"I've done what is mine to do. May Christ now teach you what you are to do."
A votive lamp burns in front of the Tomb of St. Francis. Every year, for the Feast of St. Francis on October 4th, oil is donated by a different region of Italy. This year the oil will be donated by Sardinia. The oil will keep the lamp burning until next year. The friars from the Basilica of Saint Anthony of Padua share this thought: “this gesture takes on a highly symbolic meaning, synonymous with light and hope.”
May the Lord
bless you and keep you.
May He show His face to you
and be merciful to you.
May He turn His countenance to you
and give you peace.
