On Monday, August 14, 2023, the first anniversary of the inauguration of the Laudato Si’ Hospitale [guesthouse] was celebrated. The hospitale offers accommodations to pilgrims from Italy and the rest of Europe who come to Assisi on foot or by bicycle.
The anniversary event began with the celebration of Mass in Assisi’s cemetery chapel. The Minister General, Friar Carlos TROVARELLI, presided. Those concelebrating included the Custos of the General Custody of the Sacred Convent of St. Francis of Assisi, Friar Marco MORONI, and the Pastor of the Church of St. Margaret in Assisi, Friar Teofil CIUCHEȘ.
The event continued in front of the hospitale with the presentation and blessing of a sculpture called “The Search for Self.” It was donated by sculptor Toni VENZO from Venice, Italy. The artwork was paired with a poem written by Friar Jorge A. FERNÁNDEZ, entitled “Iter Vitae.” The sculptor himself then spoke and explained the meaning of his sculpture. The Mayor of Assisi, Stefania PROIETTI, thanked everyone for attending and offered the sculptor a gift. The President of the Laudato Si’ Association, Carlo MENICHINI, spoke next and concluded his remarks by reciting the poem “Iter Vitae.” The event ended with Friar Marco MORONI blessing the sculpture and everyone present.
Those attending included several friars, members of the municipal administration of Assisi, members of the Laudato Si’ Association, volunteers, collaborators and friends.
The third and final stage of this beautiful celebration was a joyful and fraternal agape meal, which was shared by all those present at the hospitale.
Friar Jorge A. FERNÁNDEZ
