Saint Clare Parish Has Been Named a Pilgrimage Site during the Jubilee Year of Saint Francis of Assisi
[The following is adapted from the Diocese of Raleigh, North Carolina]
Pope Leo XIV has announced a special Jubilee Year of Saint Francis, running from January 10, 2026, to January 10, 2027. This proclamation comes as the world prepares to honor the 800th anniversary of the passing of Saint Francis of Assisi (October 3, 1226) and brings renewed attention to this “Little Poor Man – Il Poverello” whose message of peace and simplicity still speaks powerfully today.
This special year invites us all to discern the grace of the indulgence associated with the Jubilee. It is an opportunity to learn more about Saint Francis and understand why, even after 800 years, he remains one of the Church’s most beloved saints.
The Eucharistic Prayers for Various Needs and Occasions talk about the hope of our earthly pilgrimage leading to an eternal dwelling, . . Franciscans celebrate the death of Saint Francis (of which this is the 800th anniversary) as his Transitus, that is, passing from earthly life into eternal life. Perhaps a specific pilgrimage can be a chance to reflect on how we might live our entire lives as a journey to the ultimate encounter with God.
How to Share in the Graces of the Jubilee Year
Along with this celebration, the Vatican is offering a plenary indulgence—not as a “spiritual shortcut,” but as a heartfelt invitation to come home to God’s mercy. The path to the indulgence follows the traditional steps of confession, Holy Communion, and prayer for the Pope’s intentions. However, the heart of this Jubilee lies in Franciscan action. The Vatican encourages the faithful to:
- Visit Franciscan churches on pilgrimage.
- Parishes in the Diocese of San José that have a Franciscan heritage or presence include Saint Francis of Assisi Parish in San José, Our Lady of the Assumption, Croatian Mission in San José (served by Croatian Franciscans) and Saint Clare Parish in Santa Clara(owing to the close spiritual relationship between Saint Clare and Saint Francis).
- Spend time in quiet meditation on Franciscan Spirituality.
- Practice “concrete acts” of charity, humility, and simplicity.
In a recent conversation with Vatican Media, Bishop Krzysztof Nykiel, Regent of the Apostolic Penitentiary, was careful to clear up common misconceptions. He explained that an indulgence is not a “vending machine for grace” or a religious transaction. Instead, it is meant to be a genuine, personal encounter with God. “The Year of Saint Francis should not just be about ‘special effects’ or big events,” Bishop Nykiel shared. Instead, he hopes the year marks a “quiet journey from excitement to maturity—moving from big celebrations to the simple, daily imitation of Francis’s life.”
Why Saint Francis Still Matters
“In a world still scarred by war, poverty, and the marginalization of the vulnerable, this Jubilee Year invites us to honor Saint Francis by embracing his spirit of compassion and service,” said Ellen Ferrone, OFS, Regional Minister, Brothers and Sisters of Saint Francis. “We are called to look beyond ourselves and become instruments of peace and hope for others.”
We are grateful to Bishop Cantú for extending this honor and privilege to our parish.