Free to attend
The Feast of the Stigmata of Saint Francis is an annual event celebrated in Santuario della Verna, a significant spiritual site on the Via di Francesco pilgrimage trail.
The feast commemorates the moment when Saint Francis is believed to have received the stigmata, or the wounds of Christ, on his body.
Held on September 16-17, the celebration includes a night of Stigmata and a nocturnal vigil, which attracts numerous young people and pilgrims.
Participants engage in prayer, meditation, and confession throughout the night.
The event offers an opportunity to reflect on the profound spiritual encounter between Saint Francis and the Crucified Christ, and to experience a sense of unity and connection with others on the pilgrimage trail.
September 16:
Gathering at Chiusi della Verna church, frugal picnic dinner, and nighttime vigil at the Sanctuary
September 17:
Mass, personal prayer, confession, and a shared meal
The Feast of the Stigmata has been celebrated for centuries at the Sanctuary of La Verna, a place of great spiritual significance.
It was here that Saint Francis received the stigmata, an event that deeply impacted his life and the Franciscan tradition.
Over time, the celebration has evolved to include a night of Stigmata and nocturnal vigil, which young people from various backgrounds attend to prepare for the feast.
This gathering encourages the sharing of stories, experiences, and perspectives related to the encounter between Saint Francis and the Crucified Christ.
The event also fosters a sense of unity among participants, as they come together to pray, meditate, and explore their spirituality.
