Franciscan Family of Nagaland Celebrates 800th Transitus of St Francis
of Assisi
The All Franciscan Family of India (AFFI), Nagaland, celebrated the
800th Transitus of St Francis of Assisi on Monday, 19 October 2026, at
Assisi Convent, Khermahal, Dimapur, with great devotion and Franciscan
fraternity. Members of the OFM Capuchins, UFS, FCC and FSMA
congregations gathered to commemorate the passing of St Francis from
earthly life to eternal life and to renew their commitment to living the
Gospel.
The celebration was presided over by Most Rev. Dr James Thoppil, Bishop
of Kohima Diocese, as the chief celebrant. The programme began with
arrival and registration, followed by an animation session led by Rev.
Br Renny Velayapallil, OFM Capuchin, Custos of Nirmala Matha Custody,
Assam–Meghalaya. The session helped participants reflect on the
spiritual significance of the Transitus and the enduring relevance of St
Francis's life and teachings.
The solemn Eucharistic celebration was followed by the Transitus
remembrance, a festive agape and a cultural programme showcasing the
Franciscan spirit through music, dance, prayer and dramatic
presentations. Various religious congregations and Capuchin friars
presented performances highlighting important aspects of St Francis's
spirituality, including his love for creation, his commitment to peace
and reconciliation, his encounter with the leper, the meaning of perfect
joy and his mission to rebuild the Church. The programme also emphasized
the call to live the Gospel authentically and promote fraternity,
simplicity and care for the environment.
To facilitate the smooth conduct of the celebration, responsibilities
for the liturgy, cultural performances and festive meal were shared
among the participating communities. Contributions from friars,
professed sisters and candidates supported the organization of the
jubilee celebration. The gathering concluded with refreshments and a
spirit of gratitude, strengthening the bonds of unity among the
Franciscan family of Nagaland. The 800th Transitus celebration served as
a renewed invitation to follow the footsteps of St Francis of Assisi by
embracing humility, peace, reconciliation and universal brotherhood, and
by witnessing to the Gospel through a life of service and love for all
creation.
