Friar Rick Riccioli

Opening the Tomb of St. Francis

This year marks the 800th anniversary of the death of St. Francis of Assisi. To mark the occasion Pope Leo has proclaimed a Jubilee Year of St. Francis from January 10, 2026 to January 10, 2027. As part of this Jubilee the tomb of St. Francis in Assisi was opened for a recognition of his remains and veneration by the faithful. The Very Reverend Michael Heine, OFM Conv, Minister Provincial of Our Lady of the Angels Province (pictured, in prayer, touching the remains of St. Francis) carried with him the prayers and concerns of all the friars of our province and of the men and women we serve in our parishes, schools and ministries. Various special events will take place during this year of Jubilee including the Plenary Indulgence granted by Pope Leo to anyone who visits a Franciscan church.

Friar Michael Heine was recently re-elected as Minister Provincial by the friars. He will lead the Province as it gathers in its Ordinary Provincial Chapter in May and July to review the last 4 years and to plan for the future of the friars. Our Lady of the Angels Province of the Friars Minor Conventual spans along the east of the United States and Canada from Ontario to Florida and includes a presence in Brazil, the UK and Ireland.