To mark the Special Jubilee Year of St Francis, communities in the Diocese of Parramatta with close ties to the “Poverello of Assisi” have gathered in celebration and reflection on his life, charism and dedication to the poor and nature.
Kellyville parishioners given Franciscan life lessons
Every week at Our Lady of the Rosary Parish, Kellyville – under the care of the Conventual Franciscans – parishioners have been fortunate to read reflections on the Italian saint through their parish bulletin. These small reflections encourage parishioners to examine personal commitments, think beyond themselves and to practice practical charity in the spirit of St Francis.
Every Tuesday after evening Mass, parishioners participate in a Blessing of the Bread. A reminder of St Francis’ compassion for the poor, the blessed bread is a symbol of thanksgiving, charity and God’s abundant blessings, encouraging us to care for those in need.
Kellyville school staff leading by example
At the parish’s namesake primary school, staff walked the Jubilee Path with St Francis during a formation day at the beginning of Term 2.
Inspired by St Francis’ call to “rebuild my Church”, staff reflected on how they are called to rebuild hope, strengthen relationships and be instruments of peace within their community.
Annie Takchi, Leader of Mission, explained staff were reminded that “rebuilding of God’s Church begins with simple acts of faith, care and love that quietly transform hearts, communities and creation.”
A sacred space during a formation session for staff of Our Lady of the Rosary Primary School, Kellyville. Image: Supplied
New young adults group adopt Franciscan charisms
Centred on the Franciscan pillars of service, simplicity, prayer and community, a new group for young adults aged 23 and over has been established at The Good Shepherd Parish, Plumpton – under the care of the Capuchin Franciscans.
Formally launched by Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv, Bishop of Parramatta, the developing group has had sessions on vocations, St Clare of Assisi, and is planning deep dives into the life of St Francis, including his Canticle of the Sun during the Season of Creation in September.
Families living the Gospel through St Francis
In May, parishioners from Mary Immaculate Parish, Quakers Hill-Schofields were invited by the Secular Franciscans from across the region to celebrate their regional family day at the Shrine of Our Lady of Mercy, Penrose Park.
The day was a joyful expression of the Franciscan charism – bringing brothers and sisters together in prayer, fraternity and the shared joy of their call to bring the Gospel to life, and life to the Gospel.
“There was great joy in renewing old friendships, welcoming new faces and encouraging one another to continue living the Gospel in the spirit of St Francis and St Clare,” Anthony Saliba OFS said.
Parishes prepare to go ‘all out’ for feast day
On 4 October – St Francis’ feast day – the Franciscan parishes are preparing to bring their communities together in prayer and thanksgiving.
On the weekend of the feast day at Kellyville, there will be a blessing of the animals, veneration of the Relic of St Francis and a community sausage sizzle.
For Plumpton, there will be a week of festivities with events such as a commemoration of the deceased members of the Seraphic Order and pilgrimage to the resting places of the first Capuchins in Australia, and an art showcase inspired by the upper level of the Basilica in Assisi.
Parishioners and visitors are more than welcome to join in the festivities.
(L-R) Fr Gerard O’Dempsey OFM Cap, Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv, Sr Pia Galea OSC speak during the event ‘Into the Year of St Francis’ at Good Shepherd Parish, Plumpton in April 2026. Image: Supplied
As the Year of St Francis concludes in January 2027, there is still time to receive a plenary indulgence.
You can take part in a Jubilee celebration or make a pilgrimage to one of the Franciscan churches or sites in the Diocese of Parramatta, under the usual conditions of confession, Communion and prayer for the Holy Father’s intentions.
Visit parracatholic.org/year-of-st-francis for pilgrim sites across the Diocese.
This article was originally published in the 2026 Season of Creation| Spring edition of the Catholic Outlook Magazine. You can read it online here or pick up a copy in your local parish.
