On this, the day of Pope Francis' funeral, we began with a visit to the tomb of Saint Francis, located outside the city walls. The Basilica is a beautiful building that contains a stunning collection of frescoes by the painter Lorenzetti.
After this visit, we had some free time, during which some of the group gathered to drink coffee and watch the funeral. Some explored the tiny passageways around the town whilst others hiked up to the castle to enjoy the spectacular view from the watch tower.
After Mass and a delicious (and very filling) lunch, we travelled by coach to the Basilica of St Mary of the Angels. Inside this huge church is the Portiuncula Chapel and the place where St Francis died. Around it are the rose gardens. The story goes that St Francis, in an attempt to combat a great temptation, threw himself into some brambles; these turned into thornless rose bushes, which still grow there to this day.
We continued on to the church at Rivetorto, inside which are the tiny dwellings where St Francis and his companions lived among the poorest of the poor.
Nearby is the Commonwealth War Cemetery, where we spent time in silent reflection before returning to the hotel for dinner.
Mary Hardiman
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Basilica of St Francis
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A very holy duster!
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Watching Pope Francis' Funeral
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Lunch time
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| Basilica of St Mary of the Angels |
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| Some pictures from the castle |
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| Some pictures from the castle |
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How fitting that, as you visit Assisi — the home of St. Francis — it coincides with the funeral of the Holy Father. As the Conclave begins, your pilgrimage continues, guided by the love Pope Francis shared with all, and in hope for new beginnings to carry the Church forward. Pray for the Conclave.
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