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St. Francis of Assisi Church – Hyderabad Celebrates 800th Anniversary of the Stigmata

The Friars and parishioners of St. Francis of Assisi Church celebrated the 800th anniversary of the Stigmata of our Holy Father Francis with a Triduum commencing on 13 September and concluding on 15 September.

Br. Chinna, the Guardian of Shalom Friary, and Br. Praveen D’Souza, along with the pastoral team, organized the Triduum, which included an inspiring Taizé prayer service and Adoration of the Holy Eucharist on the first day. The youth actively participated in the event, making it a prayerfully moving celebration. Insights from the Stigmata experience invited the young to encounter Christ in the Holy Eucharist.

The Second day of the Triduum on the Feast Day of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross saw the healing prayer service organized for the parishioners. Fr. Ravi SVD, through preaching the Word of God and Prayers, carried out the healing service which culminated in the Holy Eucharist.

On Sunday, the third day of the Triduum, the parish celebrated the Feast of the Stigmata of our Holy Father. During the Eucharist, Br. Gopu Praveen OFM Capuchin and Br. Johnsekar OFM shared reflections on St. Francis. They emphasized how Francis, in his journey of discipleship, understood "taking up the cross" as embodying Christ's suffering and love. His reception of the Stigmata on Mount La Verna marked his deep commitment to live the Gospel. As we commemorate the 800th anniversary, we are reminded to live our faith through concrete actions, allowing our love for God to transform us into true reflections of Christ.

The youth of the parish used their creative skills to beautifully recreate the scene of the Stigmata on the altar and outside the church, inviting everyone to reflect on St. Francis' experience. Their intention was to sow seeds of renewal in the minds and hearts of the community. The Shalom Friary fraternity, led by Br. Chinna, Guardian, is appreciated for their efforts in celebrating the Stigmata of St. Francis of Assisi.. 

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