The relics of St. Francis of Assisi were publicly exhibited at the Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi to commemorate the 800th anniversary of his death.
On February 21, the remains of St. Francis of Assisi were displayed in the lower church of the Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi, marking the 800th anniversary of his death. The ceremony of the transfer of the relics featured a Vespers prayer led by Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime. In his homily, Cardinal Artime emphasized that the exhibition of St. Francis's body is not merely a nostalgic look into the past, but a strong and concrete call for personal conversion in the present. He highlighted that the life of St. Francis offers a powerful reminder of how the Gospel can be lived through everyday choices and embodied love.
Cardinal Artime also reflected on the last hours of St. Francis's life, quoting the Gospel phrase "He loved them to the end." He noted that St. Francis's life was marked by service and humility, calling attention to how his example continues to inspire people to live in a way that embraces God's calling. The exhibition of these relics serves not only as a remembrance of the saint's extraordinary life but also as a challenge for the faithful to be engaged in their communities through acts of love and service.
This event forms part of ongoing celebrations that honor St. Francis's significant impact on Christianity and social values, encouraging followers to embody his teachings in their own lives. The relics serve as a tangible connection to the saint, fostering reflection among the faithful about their roles in modern society and their commitment to the principles that St. Francis exemplified throughout his life.
