On November 29, 2023, the Franciscan Family in Nazareth, Israel, gathered to celebrate the 800th anniversary of the promulgation of the Later Rule. Their celebration coincided with the Franciscan centenary celebrated the same day in Rome.
The celebration in Nazareth included Mass in the grotto of the Basilica of the Annunciation, presided over by Friar Wojciech BOŁOZ, OFM, the Guardian and Rector of the Basilica as well as the Shrine of the Holy Family. All members of the Franciscan Family present in Nazareth attended the Mass, including the Friars Minor, the Poor Clares, other Franciscan sisters and members of the Secular Franciscan Order (OFS). After the Mass, Friar Wojciech invited all the celebrants and participants to a fraternal meal and an exchange of greetings at the Casa Nova, a hostel located opposite the Basilica. The atmosphere was very joyful as everyone met with one another; it was the first time in a long time that the whole Franciscan Family had gathered together!
Ramez SALEM, OFS Nazareth
