On Tuesday, September 17, 2024, the Basilica of the Twelve Holy Apostles commemorated two significant anniversaries: the 800th anniversary of St. Francis of Assisi receiving the stigmata and the 300th anniversary of the consecration of the basilica itself.
At 5:30 p.m., the Minister General, Friar Carlos TROVARELLI, welcomed the congregation assembled in the basilica. Then, the General Archivist, Friar Domenico CASTIGLIONE, gave a lecture on the history of the basilica. He recalled the details of the consecration event celebrated by Pope Benedict XIII on September 17, 1724. Moreover, he explained how the current architectural features of the basilica were achieved.
At 6:30 p.m., His Eminence Cardinal Giovanni Battista RE presided over Mass, celebrated with the General Curia community and representatives of the General Houses of Rome. Cardinal RE is the Dean of the College of Cardinals. In his homily, he spoke about his deep bond with the Conventual Franciscan friars, the spiritual importance of our Seraphic Father receiving the stigmata, and the consecration of the basilica.
The event ended with a fraternal and convivial reception in the Immaculate Conception Hall of the Friary of the Twelve Holy Apostles.
To hear the history lecture [Italian language only], go to: https://youtu.be/RaPmla6goIA
Friar Aurelio ERCOLI
