The Office of Evangelization & Catechesis in the Diocese of Rochester joins Catholics around the world in celebrating a Franciscan Jubilee year, observed from Jan. 10, 2026, through Jan. 10, 2027, marking the 800th anniversary of the passing of St. Francis of Assisi, a Catholic friar who founded the religious order of the Franciscans. Pope Leo XIV proclaimed the special Jubilee year inviting the faithful to reflect on the life and enduring legacy of St. Francis whose profound commitment to the gospel, love for the poor and reverence for all of creation continues to inspire Christians eight centuries later. Learn more about St. Francis each month in our newsletters.