From May 29 to June 1, 2025, the Franciscan Family in France gathered in Lourdes, at the Cité Saint Pierre (Caritas France) Hospitality and Accommodation Center and the Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes, to celebrate the 800th anniversary of the composition of the Canticle of the Creatures, coinciding with the Feast of the Ascension. The gathering was organized by the National Council of the Secular Franciscan Order and brought together members from the entire Franciscan Family, with over 700 participants.
The main objective was to share some highlights from the Franciscan centenaries celebrated in recent years. The celebration included lectures, workshops, performances, and singing sessions. It was also an opportunity to present various initiatives that embody the spirituality of the Canticle of the Creatures through encounters with the poor, ecological commitment, fraternal life, and integral ecology.
One particularly touching moment was the performance by the Conventual Franciscan friars, who shared key moments from the life of St. Francis. Overall, the gathering was a deeply spiritual experience that rekindled a strong sense of connection to St. Francis.
Friar Jean-François-Marie AUCLAIR
