Transitus

The Transitus is the annual celebration by Franciscans throughout the world of the passing of St. Francis from this life to new life with God.  It is celebrated the night of October 3, the eve of his Feast Day.  The word "transitus" means passage or crossing over.  There is no one expression for the Transitus, but many.  Prayers, accounts and writings of the life of St. Francis are included in the Transitus.  One such account is from Thomas of Celano, who wrote the Life of St. Francis, and tells of when Francis was dying, he asked that the washing of the feet from the Gospel of John be read.  This Scripture is often included in the Transitus.  Since Francis spoke of dying as embracing Sister Death, the ritual is solemn but not sorrowful and inspires the participates to faithfully live the Gospel until their dying days.

The Transitus for the Fraternity of St. Clare is October 3, at 7pm, Followed by the Renewal of Promises, usually on the Feast of St. Francis Mass, October 4th at OLM.