Franciscan Sisters of St. Joseph

FSSJ Celebrating St. Francis of Assisi

October is special to the Franciscan Sisters of St. Joseph because we, with the entire Franciscan family throughout the world, celebrate our Founder and spiritual mentor, St. Francis of Assisi. Not only are Franciscans throughout the world celebrating Francis, but also the entire Church.  January 1, 2026 Pope Leo proclaimed a Jubilee Year of St. Francis (January 10 2026-January 10 2027) for all Catholics.

As stated in Pope Leo’s Letter to the Franciscan family, “In commemorating the significant anniversary of the eighth centenary of St. Francis’  passing, I wish to join spiritually with the entire Franciscan Family and with all those who will take part in the commemorative events, hoping that the message of peace may find a profound echo in the Church and society today. The Franciscan vision of peace is not limited to the relations between human beings, but also embraces the whole of creation. Francis, who calls the sun “brother” and the moon “sister”, who recognizes in every creature a reflection of divine beauty, reminds us that peace must be extended to the entire family of Creation. This insight resonates with particular urgency in our time, when our common home is threatened and cries out under exploitation. Peace with God, peace among human beings and with creation are inseparable dimensions of a single call to universal reconciliation.”

Go to Current News and see the Transitus prayer, Liturgy on feast of St. Francis and the Sisters celebrating Franciscan Joy. There is also information about the Apostolic Penitentiary indulgence during this Jubilee Year of St. Francis.

The ambiance pictured to the left is the statue of St. Francis which is 100 years old.  Originally, it was in the motherhouse at Corpus Christi, Buffalo NY, in the area that was St. Joseph Novitiate School.  This school eventually became Immaculata Academy in Hamburg, NY.