The Peace of Assisi

A morning view as we approached
the Basilica of St. Francis

Monday, November 14 we had a quiet day - quite literally. Assisi, the home of St. Francis and St Claire, is a quiet, smaller town perched on a hill in the Italian countryside.

The morning opened with Mass at the tomb of St. Francis. The crisp, clear morning could not have been more perfect. Heading straight to the Basilica of St. Francis was simultaneously humbling and inspiring. We were able to spend time following Mass in prayer and reflection at the tomb of St. Francis and his companions or in the basilica above.

Fr. Brad & Fr. Matt at Mass

Cheryl gave a wonderful, heartfelt reflection

Soon we met up with our guide who gave us a detailed and faith-filled tour of the Basilica of St. Francis and the Basilica of St. Claire. We also stopped in the main square where some key moments in the life of St. Francis occurred.

A view of Assisi from St. Claire's

Due to the size of Assisi and the compact nature of this little town, we only had a half day of tour. However, we were able to spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the city on our own. Yet again, we formed into small groups, often mingling with new people, to find a spot for lunch, purchase a few religious items to commemorate the day, and explore the other churches and significant places of prayer or history in the hamlet.

The sun began to set and the evening grew cool; we were all glad to reach the bus to return to the hotel. Some decided to later head back to the walled area of Assisi for dinner. Others ate in the hotel or in a nearby restaurant. Everyone enjoyed relaxing after a day of climbing up and down that hill!

A statue of St. Francis returning home from war -
uncertain regarding his calling

Sunset over lower Assisi and St. Mary of the Angels

Again, if this pilgrimage sounds of interest to you, 

I invite you to consider joining us on the 2017 pilgrimage 

to Lourdes, Spain, and Portugal. 

See details here.