The Franciscans of France celebrate 800 years

The poet Br. Pacifico, one of the companions of St Francis of Assisi, established the first Franciscan Community in France at Vézelay in 1217, before continuing the journey to Saint Denis (Paris). After eight centuries, the Franciscan family counts in France today more than 3000 members (OFM, OFMConv, OFMCap., Poor Clares, Franciscan Sisters, and seculars of all ages). The first Friars Minor sent by Francis of Assisi, have had a tremendous positive impact on the history of France and neighboring countries. We remember the Kings of France and Naples (St. Louis King of France – St. Bonaventure's friend and protector of the friar-professors at the University of Paris and patron of the SFO; Bishop St. Louis of Anjou and many Francescan saints and blesseds, not to mention the French support for the establishment of the custody of the Holy Land). The Jubilee was announced on February 22 with a press conference in the basilica of Saint-denis, near Paris, with the participation of Mons. Jean-Pierre Grallet, Franciscan and Archbishop of Strasbourg; Br. François-Xavier Bustillo, OFMConv. Custos and a spokesman for the Jubilee; Br. Jean-Baptiste Auberger, a specialist in the Franciscan sources; and Mrs Christine Bisset, representative of the SFO. From March 1 to October 4 the Franciscan family invites all interested persons to participate in commemorations in France, in the joy of universal brotherhood and sisterhood. For more information (in French): www.jubile800ans.franciscains.fr Facebook : jubilefranciscain800ans Email : jubile800ans@franciscains.fr