Despite the many changes in our lives this year, one thing remained the same, the desire to celebrate and honor St. Francis of Assisi, the founder of the Order of the Friars Minor, on his feast day. Following both provincial and public health guidelines, the celebrations of St. Francis had a unique twist this year.
Franciscans celebrate both the Transitus of St. Francis on October 3rd and the Feast of St. Francis on October 4th.

Lalo Espinoza, OFM, paid homage to St. Francis by hosting a beautiful Transitus service at St. John the Baptist Catholic Parish in Roswell, New Mexico. Parishioners acted out St. Francis's life and created a stunning display with St. Francis adorned in red roses. Followers of St. Francis could attend this service in person or view the live-stream. During an engaging homily, Fr. Lalo focused on St. Francis' full-hearted dedication to God.

Gerry Steinmetz, OFM, paid homage to St. Francis, the patron saint of animals, by
hosting an interactive virtual pet blessing at St. Joseph's Mission in Laguna, New Mexico. Southwest Franciscan social media followers were invited to submit their pets' names to take part in the blessing. Charlies, Martinez, OFM also hosted a pet blessing at St. Peter Catholic Church in Roswell, New Mexico. This blessing was a drive-through parade of pets! Parishioners could stay in their cars while
their furry friends received a blessing of St. Francis.

At Casa Guadalupe, there were many firsts among the friars for the Transitus and Feast of St. Francis. Ron Walters, OFM, had his first feast celebration being provincial ministers, Bernard Keele, OFM, had his first celebration as a Franciscan friar, and Manuel Mendoza, OFM, had his first celebration with the Southwest Franciscans! The friars gathered for prayer, fraternity, and a delicious meal.