On September 19, 2024, the Province of Sts. Cyril and Methodius in the Czech Republic hosted a special celebration to mark some important anniversaries. The celebration took place at the Basilica and Friary of St. James the Greater, Apostle, in Prague, the Czech Republic. The anniversaries that were commemorated included:
– the 800th anniversary of St. Francis of Assisi receiving the stigmata, which recalled the spiritual legacy of our patron saint;
– the 750th anniversary of the death of St. Bonaventure of Bagnoregio, who was a bishop, a scholar and one of the most eminent Franciscan philosophers and theologians;
– the 50th anniversary of the elevation of the Church of St. James the Greater, Apostle, to a Minor Basilica, which underlines the importance of this place.
The Minister Provincial, Friar Piotr PAWLIK, presided over the commemorative Mass. Many faithful and guests attended. During the liturgy, the people thanked the Lord God for the graces and blessings He has given them over the years.
Additional activities were organized for this event, such as:
– a meeting at the friary, where specialists and experts reflected together on the significance of the basilica and friary, and discussed plans for the future;
– a concert entitled, “Barevný svět hudby – The Colorful World of Music”, which is part of an international organ festival. At this event, Karol MOSSAKOWSKI from Poland presented some unusual musical works, inspired by the spirituality of St. Francis;
– a “Celebration of Creation” event, which unites the Christian community in prayer and in taking action to protect our common home. The initiative continues through October 4, 2024.
We thank all those who took part in the Jubilee celebrations. We hope to continue to meet and work together in the Franciscan spirit.
Information about the events at the friary is available at: https://praha.minorite.cz/ and on the Facebook page: Bazilika św. Jakuba – Minorité Praha.
Friar Petr MACHÁČEK, Provincial Secretary
