Saint Francis Jubilee

Pope Leo has proclaimed January 10, 2026 through January 10, 2027 a Holy Year honoring Saint Francis of Assisi, marking the 800th anniversary of Francis’ death. His life of trust, simplicity, and peace continues to inspire Catholics around the world.  

Saint Francis of Assisi is one of the most beloved saints in Christian history, a man whose radical trust in God reshaped his life and, through him, the life of the Church. 

Born into wealth, Francis experienced a profound conversion and chose a different path, marked by simplicity, humility, joyful service, and deep trust in God. His witness to Gospel living through love for God, care for creation, compassion for the poor, and commitment to peace remains deeply relevant today. 

According to the decree for this Holy Year issued by the Apostolic Penitentiary, Catholics are encouraged to become models of holiness of life and constant witnesses of peace, following the example of Saint Francis. 

An important spiritual feature of this Jubilee is the offer of plenary indulgences, a powerful expression of the Church’s mercy that draws Catholics toward reconciliation and renewal. 

To receive the plenary indulgence during this Holy Year, the faithful are asked to fulfill the conditions of sacramental confession, reception of the Eucharist, and prayer for the intentions of the Holy Father. 

Participation may take many forms, including: 

• pilgrimage to a Franciscan church or a place of worship dedicated to Saint Francis
• prayer and meditation inspired by Franciscan spirituality
• daily acts of charity, humility, and peace that reflect Francis’ way of living the Gospel

Those unable to travel, including the sick, elderly, or homebound, may still receive the indulgence by uniting spiritually with the Jubilee celebrations and offering their prayers and daily sufferings to God.