On 2nd October 2026, the St. Francis of Assisi Church, Old Goa became the sacred venue for the 8th Centenary of the Transitus of St. Francis of Assisi, a milestone celebration organized by the St. Anthony Capuchin Province, Goa.
The commemoration began at 10:20 am with the YouFra (Franciscan Youth) prayerfully conducting the Transitus, recalling the saint’s passing into eternal life. Their devotion set a contemplative tone, reminding all of the Franciscan call to simplicity, fraternity, and joyful surrender to God.
The Eucharistic Celebration was presided over by Archbishop Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrao, who was warmly welcomed with a bouquet by Fr. Gabriel Fernandes OFM Cap, Provincial Minister, and Fr. Kennedy Menezes OFM Cap, Vicar Provincial.
A highlight of the liturgy was the inspiring homily preached by Rico, who reflected deeply on the life and spirituality of St. Francis. He emphasized the saint’s radical embrace of poverty, humility, and love for creation, urging the faithful to rediscover these values in their own lives. His words resonated profoundly, making the Transitus not just a remembrance but a living call to Gospel simplicity.
The success of the event was also due to the support and coordination from the ASI officers at Old Goa & Fr. Rosario Olivera, Parish Priest of St. Francis of Assisi Church, Old Goa. Their dedicated efforts ensured that the liturgy and arrangements were carried out with reverence and joy, enabling the Franciscan family to participate meaningfully.
This historic gathering united Franciscan brothers, sisters, priests, and the Order of Franciscan Secular (OFS), the Third Order that extends the Franciscan spirit into lay life. The feast was celebrated on a grand scale, with 467 participants joining in prayer, fellowship, and thanksgiving.
The day stood as a radiant testimony to the enduring vitality of the Franciscan charism — celebrating eight centuries of witness to the Gospel and renewing the call to live in peace, humility, and joy, following the footsteps of St. Francis of Assisi.
