What Is the Transitus of St. Francis and How Is It Celebrated with Prayer on October 3?

Brief Overview

• The Transitus of St. Francis is a solemn liturgical celebration observed by Franciscans worldwide on October 3, commemorating the death of St. Francis of Assisi in 1226.
• The term “Transitus” means “passage” or “crossing over” in Latin, symbolizing St. Francis’s transition from earthly life to eternal life with God.
• This event is marked by prayer services that reflect on St. Francis’s life, teachings, and his joyful embrace of death as a gateway to divine union.
• The celebration often includes readings, hymns, and rituals that highlight St. Francis’s devotion to Christ and his example of poverty and humility.
• Franciscans and other Catholics use this occasion to renew their commitment to living the Gospel in the spirit of St. Francis.
• The Transitus is distinct from the Feast of St. Francis on October 4, focusing specifically on his passing rather than his overall legacy.

Detailed Response

Historical Context of the Transitus

The Transitus of St. Francis commemorates the death of St. Francis of Assisi, which occurred just after sunset on October 3, 1226, at the Porziuncola chapel in Assisi, Italy. St. Francis, the founder of the Franciscan Order, lived a life of radical poverty, humility, and devotion to Christ, which culminated in his serene acceptance of death. According to historical accounts, such as those by Thomas of Celano and St. Bonaventure, Francis faced his final moments with joy, reciting Psalm 142 and praising God through his Canticle of the Creatures. The term “Transitus,” meaning “passage” or “crossing over,” reflects the Franciscan understanding of death as a transition to eternal life. This perspective aligns with Catholic teaching on the hope of resurrection and eternal communion with God, as outlined in the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 988–1019). The Transitus is not a universal liturgical feast but a cherished tradition within the Franciscan family, including friars, sisters, and secular members. It serves as a moment to honor St. Francis’s legacy while contemplating the universal call to holiness. The celebration is rooted in early Franciscan sources, which emphasize Francis’s imitation of Christ, particularly in his suffering and death. By focusing on his passing, the Transitus invites Catholics to reflect on their own mortality and the promise of eternal life. This annual observance has been maintained by Franciscans globally for centuries, preserving the spiritual significance of Francis’s final moments.

Theological Significance of the Transitus

The Transitus holds profound theological importance within the Franciscan tradition, emphasizing death as a passage to eternal life rather than an end. St. Francis referred to death as “Sister Death” in his Canticle of the Creatures, reflecting his belief that death is a natural part of God’s creation and a means of union with the Creator. This view resonates with Catholic theology, which teaches that death is a consequence of sin but is transformed by Christ’s resurrection into a gateway to eternal life (CCC 1005–1014). The Transitus celebration underscores St. Francis’s complete surrender to God’s will, mirroring Christ’s obedience on the cross (Luke 22:42). By commemorating his passing, Franciscans reaffirm their commitment to live the Gospel with the same trust and humility that Francis exemplified. The event also highlights the paschal mystery, connecting Francis’s death to Christ’s passion, death, and resurrection. This connection is evident in the rituals of the Transitus, which often include readings from John 13:1–17, recalling Jesus washing the disciples’ feet as an act of humble service. For Franciscans, the Transitus is a call to embrace their own “passage” through life with faith, preparing for eternal life through a life of virtue. The celebration invites participants to reflect on their own mortality and the hope of salvation. It serves as a reminder that, like Francis, all Catholics are called to live in alignment with God’s will, trusting in His promise of eternal life.

Core Elements of the Transitus Prayer Service

The Transitus prayer service is a structured liturgical event that varies slightly depending on the Franciscan community or setting, but it typically includes several core elements. The service often begins with the lighting of two candles, symbolizing the light of Christ and Francis’s passage into eternal glory. Participants may gather in a church, chapel, or even a home, creating a sacred space for reflection. A key component is the reading of historical accounts of St. Francis’s death, such as those found in Thomas of Celano’s First Life of St. Francis or St. Bonaventure’s Life of St. Francis. These texts recount how Francis, despite severe illness, praised God and embraced death joyfully. The recitation of Psalm 142 is central, as it was the last prayer Francis spoke before his death. Hymns, such as the Canticle of the Creatures, are often sung to honor Francis’s love for creation and his trust in God. The service may also include a veneration of a relic or image of St. Francis, fostering a tangible connection to his legacy. Silent reflection and communal prayers, such as the Our Father, are incorporated to emphasize Francis’s devotion to Christ’s passion. The blowing out of candles at the end signifies Francis’s death, inviting participants to contemplate their own journey toward eternal life.

Variations of the Transitus Celebration

While the Transitus is a unified tradition, its celebration can vary depending on the setting and participants. For groups without a priest or deacon, the service may be led by lay Franciscans and focus on communal prayer and reflection. In such cases, the service might include Evening Prayer I from the Liturgy of the Hours or the recitation of specific mysteries of the Rosary, such as the Sorrowful Mysteries, to reflect on Christ’s passion. When a priest or deacon is present, the service may incorporate more formal liturgical elements, such as a blessing or the reading of John 13:1–17. In-home celebrations, as outlined by some Franciscan sources, are simpler, involving two candles, a relic or image of St. Francis, and prayers like the Our Father recited five times in honor of Christ’s wounds. Some communities, such as the Capuchin Franciscans, emphasize storytelling and the sharing of bread to symbolize unity and service. In regions like the Holy Land, the Transitus may include unique rituals, such as the Lucernary, where the church is darkened during the reading of Francis’s death and relit to signify his entry into eternal life. These variations reflect the flexibility of the Transitus while maintaining its focus on prayer and reflection. Regardless of the format, the service aims to inspire participants to live out Franciscan values of humility and love. The diversity of celebrations underscores the universal appeal of St. Francis’s spirituality within the Catholic Church.

The Role of Psalm 142 in the Transitus

Psalm 142 plays a central role in the Transitus, as it was the final prayer St. Francis recited before his death. This psalm, a cry for deliverance from distress, expresses trust in God as a refuge and source of salvation. Its inclusion in the Transitus service reflects Francis’s complete surrender to God’s will, even in the face of suffering. The psalm’s verses, such as “I cry out to you, Lord, I say, You are my refuge,” resonate with Francis’s life of dependence on divine providence. During the service, the psalm is often read communally, followed by the antiphon, “Alleluia, Alleluia, Francis, poor and humble, enters heaven rich and is welcomed with celestial hymns.” This antiphon captures the Franciscan belief that humility and poverty lead to spiritual richness in eternal life. The recitation of Psalm 142 invites participants to reflect on their own reliance on God in times of trial. It also connects Francis’s death to the broader Christian narrative of hope and redemption. By praying this psalm, Catholics are reminded of the universal call to trust in God’s mercy, as taught in the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 1817–1821). The centrality of Psalm 142 underscores the Transitus as a moment of both mourning and celebration, pointing to the joy of eternal life.

Connection to the Canticle of the Creatures

St. Francis’s Canticle of the Creatures is a cornerstone of the Transitus, reflecting his profound love for God’s creation and his acceptance of death. Composed during his final illness, the canticle praises God through elements of creation, such as “Brother Sun” and “Sister Moon,” and culminates in a verse welcoming “Sister Death.” This hymn is often sung or recited during the Transitus to honor Francis’s vision of creation as a reflection of God’s glory. The canticle’s theology aligns with Catholic teaching on the goodness of creation and the call to stewardship (CCC 2415–2418). By including the canticle, the Transitus service emphasizes Francis’s belief that all aspects of life, including death, are part of God’s divine plan. The verse on “Sister Death” is particularly poignant, as it portrays death as a loving companion rather than an enemy. This perspective encourages Catholics to approach their own mortality with faith and hope. The canticle also serves as a reminder of Francis’s call to live in harmony with creation, a message that resonates with modern Catholic teachings on ecology. During the Transitus, the singing of the canticle fosters a sense of unity among participants, connecting them to Francis’s spirituality. It invites reflection on how to live a life of praise and gratitude, even in the face of death.

The Transitus in Modern Franciscan Communities

In contemporary Franciscan communities, the Transitus remains a vibrant tradition that adapts to various cultural and pastoral contexts. For example, in the United States, Franciscan fraternities, such as the Secular Franciscan Order, organize Transitus services in parishes, retreat centers, or homes. These gatherings often attract both Franciscans and other Catholics inspired by St. Francis’s spirituality. In 2024, the Diocese of Portland reported nearly 100 participants at a Transitus service led by Bishop James Ruggieri, a Secular Franciscan, highlighting the event’s communal significance. The service included hymns, readings, and a procession, reflecting the richness of Franciscan liturgy. In the Holy Land, the Custody of the Holy Land incorporates the Lucernary ritual, symbolizing Francis’s passage from darkness to eternal light. Modern celebrations may also integrate multimedia, such as YouTube videos or slideshows, to share the story of Francis’s death with broader audiences. These adaptations ensure that the Transitus remains relevant while preserving its theological core. The event continues to inspire Catholics to live out the Gospel with humility and joy, as St. Francis did. It also serves as a moment for Franciscans to renew their vows or commitment to their charism, as seen in ceremonies involving young friars in Jerusalem.

Practical Ways to Participate in the Transitus

Catholics interested in participating in the Transitus can do so in various settings, from formal church services to private home observances. For those near Franciscan communities, attending a Transitus service at a parish or monastery offers a rich communal experience. These services typically include prayer, scripture readings, and hymns, creating a reflective atmosphere. For individuals or small groups, an in-home Transitus service, as outlined by the Secular Franciscan Order, provides a simple yet meaningful way to participate. This involves lighting two candles, praying Psalm 142, and reading from Francis’s Testament or other writings. Meditating on Francis’s prayers, such as the Canticle of the Creatures, can deepen one’s connection to his spirituality. Attending Mass on October 3 or 4 is another way to honor Francis, as the Eucharist is central to Franciscan spirituality (CCC 1322–1419). Catholics can also engage in acts of service, such as caring for the poor or creation, to embody Francis’s values. Some communities encourage sharing Italian almond cookies, a nod to Francis’s request for sweets before his death. These practical steps make the Transitus accessible to all who wish to celebrate St. Francis’s legacy.

The Transitus and Catholic Spirituality

The Transitus of St. Francis offers Catholics a unique opportunity to deepen their spirituality through reflection on death and eternal life. By commemorating Francis’s passing, participants are invited to consider their own journey toward God. The celebration emphasizes the Catholic belief in the communion of saints, as St. Francis’s life and death inspire the faithful to pursue holiness (CCC 946–962). His example of embracing poverty and humility challenges Catholics to live counterculturally in a materialistic world. The Transitus also reinforces the importance of preparing for death through a life of faith, hope, and charity (CCC 1812–1829). By praying together, Catholics experience the communal dimension of faith, strengthening their bond with the Church. The rituals of the Transitus, such as candle lighting and scripture reading, create a sacred space for encountering God’s grace. This event also highlights the Franciscan charism of joy, even in suffering, which resonates with the Christian call to carry one’s cross (Matthew 16:24). For many, the Transitus is a moment to renew their commitment to living the Gospel authentically. It serves as a reminder that death is not the end but a passage to eternal union with God.

The Transitus as a Call to Action

The Transitus is not only a moment of reflection but also a call to action for Catholics to live out St. Francis’s values. His life of service to the poor and marginalized challenges believers to address social injustices in their communities. The Catechism of the Catholic Church emphasizes the preferential option for the poor, a principle deeply rooted in Francis’s ministry (CCC 2443–2449). The Transitus encourages participants to examine their own lives and consider how they can embody Franciscan ideals of simplicity and compassion. For example, Francis’s love for creation inspires modern Catholics to engage in environmental stewardship, aligning with Pope Francis’s encyclical Laudato Si’. The celebration also prompts reflection on personal mortality, urging Catholics to prepare for death through prayer and reconciliation (CCC 1430–1470). By imitating Francis’s trust in God, believers can find courage to face life’s challenges with hope. The Transitus thus serves as a spiritual catalyst, motivating Catholics to live with purpose and faith. It reminds the faithful that, like Francis, they are called to do what is theirs to do, as he said, “I have done my part; may Christ teach you to do yours.” The event fosters a renewed commitment to living the Gospel in everyday life.

The Global Reach of the Transitus

The Transitus is celebrated by Franciscans and Catholics worldwide, reflecting the universal appeal of St. Francis’s spirituality. In places like Maine, Jerusalem, and San Francisco, communities gather to honor his passage with prayer and ritual. The event transcends cultural and geographical boundaries, uniting the Franciscan family in a shared act of remembrance. In the Holy Land, the Custody of the Holy Land integrates the Transitus with local traditions, such as the renewal of vows by young friars. In the United States, dioceses and parishes host services that attract both Franciscans and lay Catholics inspired by Francis’s legacy. The global nature of the Transitus underscores the Church’s unity in celebrating the saints (CCC 946–959). It also highlights the enduring relevance of Francis’s message in addressing contemporary issues like poverty and environmental care. The celebration fosters a sense of global solidarity among Catholics, who are called to live out the Gospel in diverse contexts. By participating in the Transitus, Catholics join a worldwide community of faith, honoring a saint whose life continues to inspire millions. The event’s global reach demonstrates the power of St. Francis’s example to unite believers across time and space.

The Transitus and the Paschal Mystery

The Transitus is deeply connected to the paschal mystery, the central mystery of the Catholic faith, which encompasses Christ’s passion, death, and resurrection (CCC 571–630). St. Francis’s life and death mirror this mystery, as he sought to imitate Christ in every aspect, including his suffering and surrender to God’s will. The Transitus service often includes readings like John 13:1–17, which recounts Jesus’s act of humble service, paralleling Francis’s own humility. By celebrating his passage, Franciscans reflect on how Christ’s victory over death transforms human mortality into a path to eternal life. The blowing out of candles during the service symbolizes Francis’s death, while the relighting in some traditions represents his entry into God’s glory. This ritual underscores the hope of resurrection, a core tenet of Catholic faith (CCC 988–1003). The Transitus invites participants to see their own lives within the framework of the paschal mystery, embracing suffering and death with faith. It also emphasizes Francis’s stigmata, the wounds of Christ he bore, as a sign of his union with the crucified Lord. By connecting Francis’s death to Christ’s, the Transitus deepens Catholics’ understanding of redemption. It serves as a powerful reminder that all Christians are called to participate in Christ’s paschal mystery through their own lives and deaths.

Preparing for the Transitus in Prayer

Preparation for the Transitus involves cultivating a prayerful disposition to fully engage with its spiritual significance. Catholics can prepare by reading St. Francis’s writings, such as his Testament or Canticle of the Creatures, to understand his spirituality. Reflecting on Psalm 142 or John 13:1–17 can help participants connect with the themes of trust and service central to the Transitus. Praying the Liturgy of the Hours, particularly Evening Prayer I for the Solemnity of St. Francis, is a traditional way to prepare. Engaging in acts of charity or reconciliation before the event aligns with Francis’s call to serve the poor and seek forgiveness (CCC 1434–1439). Meditation on one’s own mortality can deepen the experience, fostering a sense of hope in eternal life. Joining a Franciscan community or parish for the service offers a communal context for prayer. For those celebrating at home, setting up a simple altar with candles and an image of St. Francis can create a sacred space. Preparing through prayer helps Catholics internalize the Transitus’s message of trust in God’s will. This preparation ensures that the celebration is a meaningful encounter with St. Francis’s legacy and God’s grace.

The Transitus and Franciscan Vows

For Franciscan religious, the Transitus is often a time to renew their vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, reflecting St. Francis’s commitment to these virtues. In Jerusalem, for example, young friars of the Custody of the Holy Land renewed their vows during the 2023 Transitus, as noted by the Custos, Fra Francesco Patton. This renewal underscores the connection between Francis’s life and the ongoing mission of the Franciscan Order. The vows embody the evangelical counsels, which are rooted in Catholic teaching on consecrated life (CCC 914–933). By renewing their vows, Franciscans reaffirm their dedication to living as Francis did, in imitation of Christ. The Transitus serves as a reminder of the radical commitment required to follow the Gospel in the Franciscan way. For secular Franciscans, the event may inspire a recommitment to their rule of life, which emphasizes Gospel living in the world. The celebration thus strengthens the Franciscan identity, uniting members in their shared mission. It also invites all Catholics to consider how they can live out these virtues in their own lives. The Transitus, through its focus on vows, reinforces the call to holiness for all believers.

The Transitus as a Celebration of Hope

Unlike a funeral, the Transitus is a celebration of hope, reflecting St. Francis’s joyful embrace of death as a passage to God. His final words, “I have done my part; may Christ teach you to do yours,” challenge Catholics to live with purpose and trust in God’s plan. The service’s rituals, such as the singing of hymns and the sharing of bread, emphasize community and the joy of the Gospel. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that hope is the virtue that enables Christians to face death with confidence in God’s promises (CCC 1817–1821). The Transitus embodies this hope, portraying death as a sister who leads the faithful to eternal life. By celebrating Francis’s passage, Catholics are reminded that their ultimate destiny is union with God. The event encourages believers to live each day with the assurance of resurrection, as Francis did. It also highlights the joy of a life well-lived in service to God and others. The Transitus thus transforms the commemoration of death into a celebration of eternal life. It inspires Catholics to approach their own lives and deaths with the same hope and trust that St. Francis exemplified.

Integrating the Transitus into Parish Life

Parishes can integrate the Transitus into their liturgical life to foster devotion to St. Francis and deepen community spirituality. Hosting a Transitus service on October 3 can attract both Franciscans and other parishioners interested in Francis’s legacy. The service can be advertised through parish bulletins or social media to encourage participation. Involving liturgical ministries, such as readers or musicians, can enhance the prayerful atmosphere. Parishes might also offer catechesis on St. Francis’s life and the meaning of the Transitus to prepare the community. Collaborating with local Franciscan fraternities can provide resources and expertise for the celebration. The service can be followed by a communal meal or sharing of Italian almond cookies, reflecting Francis’s request for sweets before his death. Integrating the Transitus into parish life strengthens the connection to the communion of saints (CCC 946–962). It also provides an opportunity to promote Franciscan values of simplicity and care for creation. By incorporating the Transitus, parishes can inspire their members to live the Gospel more fully.

The Transitus and Environmental Stewardship

St. Francis’s love for creation, as expressed in his Canticle of the Creatures, makes the Transitus a fitting occasion to reflect on environmental stewardship. The Catechism of the Catholic Church calls Catholics to care for creation as an act of responsibility toward God’s gift (CCC 2415–2418). During the Transitus, participants can be encouraged to commit to actions like reducing waste or supporting ecological initiatives, in line with Francis’s example. Pope Francis’s encyclical Laudato Si’ draws heavily on St. Francis’s spirituality, urging Catholics to protect the environment as a moral imperative. The Transitus can include prayers for the healing of the earth, connecting Francis’s legacy to contemporary challenges. Some communities incorporate acts of service, such as cleaning up local areas, as part of the celebration. This focus on creation deepens the Transitus’s relevance in today’s world, where environmental concerns are pressing. It also invites Catholics to see their faith as encompassing care for both the spiritual and physical world. By linking the Transitus to environmental stewardship, the celebration becomes a call to live responsibly in God’s creation. The event thus bridges Francis’s 13th-century spirituality with modern Catholic social teaching.

The Transitus and the Communion of Saints

The Transitus reinforces the Catholic belief in the communion of saints, as St. Francis’s life and death inspire the faithful to pursue holiness (CCC 946–962). By commemorating his passage, Catholics honor a saint who exemplifies the universal call to sanctity. The service connects participants to the broader Church, both living and deceased, as they pray with and for one another. St. Francis’s intercession is sought during the Transitus, as Catholics ask for his guidance in living the Gospel. The celebration also reminds believers that the saints are not distant figures but active members of the Church who aid the faithful. The veneration of relics or images during the Transitus fosters a tangible connection to this communion. It also highlights the hope of eternal life, as Francis’s passage to God prefigures the destiny of all Christians. The Transitus thus strengthens the Church’s unity across time, linking past, present, and future believers. By participating, Catholics affirm their place within the communion of saints, inspired by Francis’s example. The event underscores the shared journey toward God, uniting the faithful in prayer and purpose.

Conclusion and Ongoing Impact

The Transitus of St. Francis is a profound liturgical celebration that invites Catholics to reflect on death, eternal life, and the call to live the Gospel. Observed on October 3, it commemorates St. Francis’s joyful passage from earthly life to eternal union with God in 1226. Through prayers, scriptures, and rituals like the recitation of Psalm 142 and the Canticle of the Creatures, the Transitus captures the essence of Franciscan spirituality. It challenges believers to embrace humility, poverty, and trust in God, as Francis did. The celebration’s global reach, from Jerusalem to Maine, demonstrates its enduring relevance within the Catholic Church. By participating, Catholics deepen their connection to the communion of saints and the paschal mystery. The Transitus also inspires practical actions, such as serving the poor and caring for creation, aligning with modern Catholic teachings. Its flexibility allows for both communal and individual observances, making it accessible to all. The event continues to shape Franciscan communities and beyond, fostering a spirituality of hope and service. As Catholics celebrate the Transitus, they are reminded of St. Francis’s words: “I have done my part; may Christ teach you to do yours.”