Assisi Reimagined: A Journey of Formation and Faith

Last month, I had the profound privilege of journeying through the Franciscan heartland as part of my ongoing formation. I wish to begin by expressing my sincere gratitude to the Defenitory for their trust and support in granting me the permission to undertake this pilgrimage. I am also deeply indebted to our Brothers serving in Italy, whose exceptional hospitality and fraternal care made this transformative experience possible. What was initially a requirement of my formation quickly evolved into a powerful spiritual retreat. Being physically present in the rugged landscapes where our way of life first took root provided a deep sense of peace and a fresh clarity regarding my calling.

This journey functioned as a “moving retreat.” Standing alongside my fellow friars in Italy and seeing the simple, worn habits of the early brothers brought our history to life in a way that academic study never could. Our shared life on the road—meals, prayers, and long walks—strengthened the bonds of brotherhood, echoing the communal simplicity of the original Franciscan community. From the contemplative beauty of Saint Clare’s Basilica to the hallowed ground of San Damiano, where St. Francis first heard the Divine call, every site served as a mirror for my own vocation.

A singular highlight of this pilgrimage was visiting the Tomb of St. Francis, which was uniquely opened to mark the 800th anniversary of our Seraphic Father’s transition to eternal life. To be present during such a historic milestone was a once-in-a-lifetime grace that personally anchored me to the roots of our Order.

Beyond the shrines, the “living stones” of our Order—our brothers—were the heart of the trip. Our visits to the friaries in Pescia, Siena, the Seraphicum, and Padua felt like genuine family reunions. Their warmth was a vibrant, living lesson in what it truly means to be a Franciscan brother.

The serene beauty of the Rieti Valley and the moments of prayer at the Portiuncula were restorative, bridging the gap between my academic studies and a lived, breathing faith. These experiences reminded me that our charism is not a relic of the past, but an active mission for the present day. I return with a heart full of gratitude for the Definitory’s trust and the kindness of the Italian friars. This pilgrimage has reaffirmed for me that truly “the world is our cloister,” and that we are called to find God and serve His people wherever the path may lead.

Fr. Sonu Kachappilly OFM Conv.