Franciscan Celebrations Across Italy Honor Saint Francis and Saint Clare

From August 2 to 9, the San Damiano Monastery in Borgo Valsugana will hold a daily novena to Saint Clare of Assisi, featuring reflections and Vespers. The event coincides with the 800th anniversary of Saint Francis of Assisi’s death and highlights the enduring influence of Franciscan spirituality.

In Marigliano, the Madonna della Speranza Sanctuary opened the Porziuncola for the annual Festa del Perdono. The ceremony attracted many faithful and was followed by a night‑time pilgrimage from the Convent of Somma Vesuviana to the sanctuary, underscoring themes of forgiveness, peace and communal prayer.

Both gatherings reflect a renewed focus on contemplation and the Franciscan legacy in contemporary Italian religious life.