Assisi to Novara cycling pilgrimage commemorates Saint Francis

Seven young people from the Novara Sud communities and the San Francesco parish are embarking on a cycling pilgrimage from Assisi to Novara. Starting on September 30, the group aims to commemorate the 800th anniversary of the death of Saint Francis of Assisi by transporting a blessed torch across Italy.

The journey will be conducted as a cycling relay, with one cyclist on the road at a time supported by a van carrying the rest of the group. The participants intend to combine physical effort with spirituality, relying on a network of hospitality from local parishes and convents for overnight stays. The initiative is supported by local clergy and is designed to foster community engagement, culminating in celebrations on October 4.