Keeping Vigil with St. Francis

“Francis, poor and humble. Enters heaven rich in merit.”  So chanted local Franciscans on the night of October 3, as they observed Transitus, a commemoration of the passage of St. Francis from his mortal life to his heavenly life.

Transitus has been celebrated annually by Franciscans worldwide since the 13th century.
The St. Anthony of Padua Fraternity, a Secular Franciscan community based in Corpus Christi and made up of laypeople from across the diocese, celebrated its Transitus on the evening of October 3 at St. Joseph Parish in Port Aransas. About a dozen Secular Franciscans and some visitors attended. 

A brown Franciscan habit was placed on the ground in front of the altar to honor one of St. Francis’s final acts: his request to be stripped of even his habit and laid on the ground naked so he could die in complete poverty and humility like the crucified Christ. 

The Transitus service began with the recitation of the Evening Prayer. The Secular Franciscans then took turns reading reflections about St. Francis and his death, shared by some of his closest companions: Lady Clare (St. Clare of Assisi), Brother Rufino, Brother Angelo, and Brother Leo. A brief narration of St. Francis's death was also read, including his thought-provoking final prayer for his brothers: “I have done what was mine to do; may Christ teach you what you are to do.”
Secular Franciscans and visitors of this year's TA lit candle by the habit was then extinguished to symbolize St. Francis’s passing, and all present placed yellow roses in a vase beside the habit. Prayers of praise and thanksgiving followed, during which the Franciscans were reminded of how Francis lived and were challenged to follow in his footsteps. 
“Teach us to live strong but gentle lives in this world,” they prayed. The service concluded with the singing of “All Creatures of Our God and King.”

Following Transitus, a reception was held in the parish hall. In keeping with tradition, almond cookies, known as “Brother Jacoba” cookies, were served in honor of St. Francis's favorite treats.