Archbishop Lori leads Transitus prayer service

Archbishop William E. Lori led a Transitus prayer service on October 3 at the Shrine of St. Anthony in Ellicott City to mark the 800th anniversary of the death of St. Francis of Assisi. The service, held by the Conventual Franciscans, commemorates the saint's passage from earthly life to eternal life.

During his homily, Archbishop Lori described the Transitus as a moment of hope rather than mere nostalgia. He noted that St. Francis viewed death as a passage to new life and emphasized that the saint's life was defined by a commitment to poverty, humility, and service. The archbishop also highlighted the importance of fraternity, noting that the Gospel is lived together in community.

The annual observance follows the Franciscan tradition of gathering at sunset on October 3 to recall the final moments of the saint. The service includes the reading of the Passion, the singing of Psalm 141, and the recitation of Francis's final blessing.