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How to Attend the Pilgrim's Mass
To attend the Pilgrim’s Mass, make your way to the Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi. Upon entering the Basilica, head to the Lower Basilica, where the Mass is held. As this is a sacred space, please dress modestly and maintain an attitude of respect and reverence throughout your time in the Basilica.
It is a good idea to arrive at the Basilica at least 15 minutes before the Mass is scheduled to begin, as the Mass can be popular among pilgrims and visitors alike. This will give you time to find a suitable seat and mentally prepare yourself for the spiritual experience ahead.
Note: After your walk, check out the Facebook page for the Bisilica to watch the mass you attended.
An Opportunity for Reflection and Connection
The Pilgrim’s Mass at the Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi offers a unique opportunity for reflection on your pilgrimage and spiritual growth. It is also an occasion for connecting with fellow pilgrims who share a common goal and understanding of the challenges and rewards of the journey.
By attending the Pilgrim’s Mass, you are not only honoring the tradition of St. Francis but also embracing the spirit of pilgrimage, which transcends borders and cultures, uniting people in their quest for spiritual growth and understanding.
Visiting the Crypt of St. Francis in Assisi
The Crypt of St. Francis, located beneath the Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi, is a sacred and significant site for pilgrims and visitors alike.
Pilgrims can visit the crypt before, during, or after the Pilgrim’s Mass.
This section will guide you through the process of visiting the crypt, where the remains of St. Francis of Assisi are interred.
Accessing the Crypt
To visit the crypt, follow these steps:
- Enter the Lower Basilica: Begin at the entrance of the Lower Basilica of St. Francis. The lower basilica features stunning frescoes depicting scenes from the life of St. Francis, painted by renowned artists such as Giotto and Cimabue.
- Locate the stairways: Within the lower basilica, you will find stairways leading down to the crypt. These stairways are usually situated in the center of the room, and signs or church staff can help direct you to their location.
- Descend into the Crypt: Carefully descend the stairways to reach the crypt. As you make your way down, take a moment to appreciate the solemn atmosphere and the weight of history within these walls.
Experiencing the Crypt of St. Francis
Once inside the crypt, you will find yourself surrounded by a sense of peace and reverence. The remains of St. Francis are held in a simple stone tomb, reflecting his life of humility and devotion to God. Take this opportunity to:
- Reflect and pray: The crypt is an ideal place to pause for quiet reflection or prayer, contemplating the life and teachings of St. Francis, and seeking inspiration for your own spiritual journey.
- Light a candle: Many visitors choose to light a candle in the crypt as a symbol of their prayers or intentions. This simple act connects you to the countless pilgrims who have come before you, honoring the memory of St. Francis.
- Respect the sacred space: Remember to maintain a respectful attitude and observe any posted guidelines or requests from church staff during your visit.
Visiting the Crypt of St. Francis is a powerful and memorable experience that should not be missed during your time in Assisi. As you leave the crypt and continue your pilgrimage, you will carry with you the spirit of St. Francis and the lessons he embodied throughout his life.
