08/27/2026
BISHOP RAICA GRANTS PRIESTS OPTION OF CELEBRATING SAINT FRANCIS OF ASSISI ON SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, GRANTS PARTIAL INDULGENCE
We observe the 800th anniversary of the death of Saint Francis of Assisi this year, and accordingly, back in January, Pope Leo XIV called a Jubilee Year that especially benefits those who are somehow connected with the Saint – whether because they are members of the Franciscan order or worship in a church dedicated to him, for example. However, since October 4, Saint Francis' feast day, falls on a Sunday this year, so all can have the possibility of benefiting from this Jubilee, Bishop Raica has decided to give to all priests in the diocese the OPTION of celebrating the Mass of Saint Francis of Assisi instead of the usual Sunday Mass on Saturday afternoon/evening, October 3 and Sunday, October 4. Wherever priests take advantage of this option, the faithful who attend will be able to receive the Jubilee (plenary) indulgence. And in any case, Bishop has also granted a partial indulgence to all for Sunday, October 4, who take some moments to pray for peace in the world through the intercession of Saint Francis of Assisi - even if, in their parish, the regular Sunday Mass is celebrated.
AT THE CATHEDRAL OF SAINT PAUL AND AT SAINT STEPHEN'S CHAPEL, ALL MASSES ON OCTOBER 3-4, 2026 WILL BE FOR SAINT FRANCIS OF ASSISI, taking advantage of the option given by Bishop Raica. You can download and read the full decree here: https://stpaulsbhm.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/2026-saint-francis-of-assisi-optional-observance-decree.pdf. Thank you, Bishop Raica!
