There is a fascinating paradox in the story of Thomas of Celano: he is the man who gave the world its first portrait of St. Francis, yet he himself has often remained in the shadows, almost hidden behind the Poor Man of Assisi. On December 18, 2025, at 5:30 p.m., in the auditorium of the Seraphicum College in Rome, an effort was made to address this absence through a special screening of the film Parola di Tommaso [The Word of Thomas].
The event drew a large and emotionally engaged audience, bringing together student friars, visitors from outside the community, and a strong representation from the General Curia. All were gathered to rediscover this crucial figure in Franciscan history.
The evening was hosted by Friar Raffaele DI MURO, the Vicar of the Friary and Dean of the Pontifical Theological Faculty of St. Bonaventure. He was joined by the Minister General of the Order, Friar Carlos A. TROVARELLI, who opened the event by sincerely thanking all those who believed in this project and made such an intense evening possible.
The film captured the attention and emotions of all present. When the screening concluded, Friar Raffaele DI MURO invited the leading figures behind this artistic and institutional venture to the stage. In an atmosphere of dialogue and sharing, the film’s Director, Matteo VANNI, and the film’s leading actor, Corrado ODDI, as well as other members of the cast, spoke with the audience. They were joined by representatives of civil authorities, including the Mayor of Tagliacozzo, Dr. Vincenzo GIOVAGNORIO; and the Deputy Mayor of Celano, Piero IANNI. Also present were Friar Raimundo Valdo NOGUEIRA, the Postulator General of the Order, and Friar Maurizio DI PAOLO, the Procurator General, whose support was instrumental in making this event possible.
The resulting discussion highlighted the key points that guided the making of the film, first and foremost the desire to make the story of Thomas of Celano known far beyond the confines of the Franciscan world, restoring dignity to a complex character.
The speakers emphasized that the film was a “raw,” bold, and courageous work that was unafraid to tell the historical truth. This stylistic choice was rewarded with an extraordinary reception from the public. The speakers also talked about the paradox of Thomas: a man who left no personal writings and who lived constantly in the shadow of St. Francis, but without whom the world would never have known the St. Francis that we know today.
It is within this tension between the shadows and the light of testimony that the director located the film’s central theme: the power of the “word,” understood as the foundation of relationships and as a privileged vehicle of emotions. This was further heightened by the film’s soundtrack which was designed to stir our deepest feelings.
The evening concluded with sincere thanks to all those who attended. Their tangible support was essential for bringing a work of such historical and spiritual importance to life. Afterward, the customary group photo was taken.
Friar Michele DE GREGORIO
