On September 9-14, 2024, the community of the General Curia at the Friary of the Twelve Holy Apostles in Rome, conducted its annual spiritual retreat at the Rivotorto Friary in Assisi.
Ten friars participated, led by their Guardian, Friar Francesco CELESTINO. One should always mention that the members of the General Definitory conduct their own separate spiritual retreat. Friar Felice AUTIERI offered the meditations. He is, among other things, a professor at the St. Bonaventure Pontifical Theological Faculty in Rome.
The theme of the retreat was centered on the stigmata of St. Francis of Assisi, on the 800th anniversary of that event. Friar Felice lectured on the spiritual and existential aspects of the stigmata, which St. Francis received two years before his death. In particular, Friar Felice highlighted the character of the companions that St. Francis chose to accompany him on Mount La Verna.
There were two important events during the retreat. One was a Mass celebrated at the tomb of St. Francis in the Sacred Convent of Assisi. The other was a Mass celebrated in the crypt of the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels.
This retreat week was a blessing from the Lord, especially because of the exquisite hospitality shown by the Rivotorto community. Special thanks to the Guardian, Friar Antonio PARISI.
Friar Aurelio ERCOLI
