This morning Pope Leo XIV made a private visit to the Tomb of Saint Francis, pausing in a moment of intense silent prayer in front of the tomb. The visit, simple and intimate, took place in the presence of the community of friars of the Sacred Convent, gathered alongside the Pontiff in the same climate of meditation.
In view of the great anniversary of the death of Saint Francis, which the Church will celebrate in 2026, the Holy Father recalled the current strength of the testimony of the Poverello: a man of brotherhood, peace and hope, values for which the world continues to thirst. Leo XIV encouraged the friars, custodians of his memory, to remain living signs of this spirit, bringing a message of reconciliation to the world.
Friar Giulio Cesareo, OFMConv, director of the Communications Office of the Sacred Convent, expressed the community’s gratitude immediately after the Pope’s departure: «We experienced immense joy in welcoming the Holy Father here in the crypt. After praying silently before Francis’ tomb, he spoke a word of great comfort to us, reminding us that we are preparing for the great anniversary of Francis’ death. He urged us to continue to be, through our lives, those signs of hope, peace and brotherhood that the world needs so much. We are deeply grateful to Pope Leo for this invitation to continue our mission with faith and seriousness, walking together towards the Franciscan centenary.”
The Pontiff’s visit thus becomes an encouragement for the entire Franciscan family and for all the faithful to rediscover the figure of Saint Francis as a guide to build bridges of dialogue and sow peace in a humanity that is still looking for light
