St. Francis of Assisi called death his “sister.”
This year, 800 years after the death of St. Francis, those words have particular meaning.
Near the end of his life, Francis added these words to his famous Canticle of the Creatures:
“Praised be You, my Lord, through our Sister Bodily Death, from whom no one living can escape.”
At the time, Francis knew his own death was approaching. He was very ill, nearly blind, and suffering from the wounds of the stigmata.
On October 3, 1226, Francis asked to be brought to the Portiuncula, the little chapel outside Assisi that had played such an important role in his life. His brother friars gathered around him, and he asked them to sing the Canticle of the Creatures. The account of the Last Supper from the Gospel of John was read aloud.
That evening, Francis died.
Franciscans still gather each October 3 to remember his passing in an observance called the Transitus, a Latin word meaning “passage” or “crossing.”
This year marks the 800th anniversary of that night. Pope Leo XIV has proclaimed a special Year of St. Francis, from January 10, 2026, through January 10, 2027, and the Church is offering the opportunity to receive a plenary indulgence during this anniversary year.
To commemorate the anniversary, Ghirelli created the St. Francis Transitus Rosary, available in gold or silver. Its centerpiece depicts the Transitus of St. Francis, recalling the final passage of the saint who spent his life trying to follow Christ completely.
Francis knew that “Sister Bodily Death” would eventually come for him, just as she comes for each of us. His confidence came from knowing where that passage led.
These beautiful Ghirelli St. Francis Transitus Rosaries honor the 800th anniversary of St. Francis' passing, inviting deeper spiritual reflection. Purchase for yourself or as a gift at The Catholic Company today!
