Transitus - Celebrating Francis

Last night we went to the Transitus celebration of the two Rochester area Secular Franciscan groups.

The Transitus is a commemoration and celebration of the passing of St. Francis from this life to eternal life the evening of October 3 some 800 years ago. October 4 is celebrated as his feast day because the passing took place after sunset on the 3rd, so in traditional church reckoning considered the 4th (by the same reckoning that allows us to attend Mass on Saturday evening and still fulfil our Sunday obligation).

Last night's celebration included a Mass at which were read the accounts of his death, and John 13: 1-17, which he asked his Franciscan brothers to read to him as he lay dying. Father Catanese celebrated the Mass with a chalice and a paten he had gotten is Assisi.

One of the Secular Franciscans also brought a cross containing a first-class relic of St. Francis, as well as first-class and third-class relics of other saints (I didn't get the entire list, but two of the were St. Maximilian Kolbe and St. Faustina).

Afterwards, we gathered for some refreshments and conversation.

The group I have been attending is called the Glory of Yahweh, and questions were raised about whether the group will have to change its name due to the recent Vatican ruling about the use of the name Yahweh in the liturgy and liturgical songs (having read the statement, it does not appear to me that it applies to groups).

There was also talk of the vice presidential debate. Lots of Palin (and McCain) supporters!

Several people asked if my wife was also considering joining the Secular Franciscans. No, it's not her style of spirituality. But I can always pray.

Of course, first I have to commit to the SFO!

Overall, a lovely Mass and celebration.