The Ministers General of the Franciscan Family have sent a letter, dated April 12, 2026, from Rome to the national Franciscan Families around the world in preparation for the 800th anniversary of the Transitus of St. Francis. In it, they propose establishing a “Week of the Poor” to take place November 9-15, 2026.
The letter, written in harmony with the World Day of the Poor and also inspired by the “Mission to the Poor” planned in Rome during the same period, invites the entire Franciscan Family to place the poor—and every form of poverty—front and center again. The proposal encourages concrete acts of solidarity, addressing situations of need, listening directly to people, promoting opportunities for formation and prayer, and fostering collaboration with other ecclesial and civil entities, so as to achieve a shared prophetic vision.
Rather than setting out rigid guidelines, the letter offers simple, fraternal guidance, leaving room for creativity and adaptation in different local settings. The hope is that this initiative will grow into a widely shared and meaningful experience.
The Ministers General make this letter available to all, so that it can be known, shared, and translated into concrete choices in different settings.
The letter, available in French, English, Italian, Polish, Portuguese, and Spanish, can be downloaded here: DOWNLOAD
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