More than 70 Franciscan friars from the three branches of the First Order — the Order of Friars Minor Conventual, the Order of Friars Minor Capuchin and the Order of Friars Minor — gathered at St. Bonaventure University for “Transitus in an Era of Epochal Change,” a celebration and study days marking the 800th anniversary of the death of St. Francis of Assisi.

The gathering brought together friars from the United States and Canada, as well as from South Africa, Mozambique and Rome, offering a powerful witness to the continuing vitality and international communion of the Franciscan family. Also attending were two Conventual Franciscan bishops: Bishop Michael Martin, OFM Conv., bishop of the Diocese of Charlotte, North Carolina, and Bishop John Stowe, OFM Conv., bishop of Lexington, Kentucky.

The event, hosted by the university’s Franciscan Institute, invited participants to reflect on the meaning of Francis’ final years, his enduring spiritual vision and the challenges of living the Gospel in a time of profound ecclesial, cultural and global change.

The program featured presentations by two lay scholars of Franciscan theology. Dr. Josh Benson of The Catholic University of America offered a reflection on the “Testament of St. Francis,” exploring Francis’ final witness to Gospel life, minority, fraternity and fidelity to the Church. Dr. Jay Hammond of Saint Louis University presented on the “Admonitions of St. Francis,” highlighting their ongoing relevance for conversion, humility, peace and evangelical discipleship.

“As the Franciscan family throughout the world commemorates the eighth centenary of Francis’ death throughout 2026, this event offered friars an opportunity to return to foundational texts, deepen bonds of brotherhood and discern how the charism of Francis and Clare can speak with renewed urgency to the present moment,” said Fr. David Couturier, OFM, Cap., executive director of the Franciscan Institute.

The conference’s theme, “Transitus in an Era of Epochal Change,” framed the commemoration within the Franciscan tradition of remembering the transitus — the passing of St. Francis from this life into eternal life — while also asking how Franciscans today are called to respond to the significant transitions facing the Church and world.

Participants joined in prayer, reflection, conversation and fraternity, renewing their shared commitment to the Gospel form of life inspired by St. Francis. The gathering also served as a sign of collaboration among the three branches of the First Order, whose common Franciscan heritage continues to shape ministries of preaching, peacemaking, service to the poor, care for creation and witness to fraternity.

Learn more about the Franciscan Institute and its upcoming programs at www.sbu.edu/FranciscanInstitute.