Easter in Assisi 2022

After a three year hiatus, it is good to be back in Assisi. I arrived during Holy Week, and on Good Friday joined a procession through town, beginning at the Cathedral of San Rufino and ending at the Basilica of Saint Francis. The following photos are in front of the Basilica of Saint Clare. Assisi's Bishop Sorrentino took part in the walk.

In remembrance of Christ carrying the cross.

Several of Assisi's Confraternities joined in the procession.

While thousands gathered for Easter Sunday services in Assisi's Cathedral and two Basilicas, Francis might have appreciated the Easter Vigil Mass at the small neighborhood Church of Santa Margherita.

This church was built in 1246, while Clare was still alive; some early congregants likely knew the two saints. Since its beginning, it has been under the pastoral care of the Conventual Franciscan Friars of the Sacred Convent of Saint Francis. The altar table is made of the same stone that was once part of the original altar over the tomb of Saint Francis.

A small piazza in front of the church overlooks the Basilica of Saint Francis.

On a cool, windy night, about thirty persons were present for the Santa Margherita Easter Vigil service, several of whom were Franciscan priests, nuns, and at least one Third Order pilgrim. 

As midnight approached following the service, a bright moon shone over the home of Saints Francis and Clare.

La pace sia con te, e Buona Pasqua!

Peace be with you, and Happy Easter!