The Archdiocese of Los Angeles announced on Apr. 7 that it has designated 15 local sites as official pilgrimage destinations for the Jubilee Year of St. Francis, allowing Catholics in Southern California to participate in commemorations without traveling to Assisi, Italy.
The move is part of a wider observance following Pope Leo XIV’s proclamation of a special jubilee marking the 800th anniversary of St. Francis of Assisi’s death. The archdiocese aims to provide opportunities for prayer, reflection, and community events throughout the year.
In a letter released on March 25, Archbishop José H. Gomez encouraged Catholics to join in these activities and highlighted their spiritual significance: “During this time of grace, the Holy Father invites us to reflect on the witness of St. Francis and to grow in holiness through prayer, conversion, and works of charity,” Gomez wrote. “In this way, may this year deepen our love for Jesus Christ, strengthen our care for creation, and renew our commitment to peace.”
Pilgrims who visit these sites under certain spiritual conditions may receive a plenary indulgence related to sins already forgiven by God but still requiring purification according to Catholic teaching.
Many chosen locations have historical or spiritual ties with St. Francis or his order; Mission San Gabriel Arcángel was founded by Franciscan missionary priest St. Junípero Serra while other sites include Old Mission Santa Barbara and churches run by Franciscans or Capuchins.
Pope Leo XIV said he hoped the Jubilee would bring “a spiritual calm in a world currently tormented by war, starvation, and persecution.” He added: “I wish to join spiritually with the entire Franciscan Family and with all those who will take part in the commemorative events, hoping that the message of peace may find a profound echo in the Church and society today.”
The remains of St. Francis were recently displayed publicly at his basilica in Assisi from Feb. 22 through March 22—a rare event drawing large crowds—and Italy has reinstated Oct. 4 as a national holiday honoring him.
Father Jonathan St. Andre from Franciscan University commented on these developments: “It’s an exciting year; I don’t think any of us would have anticipated that Pope Leo would have declared this… But to make this a Jubilee, and to offer an indulgence … is just remarkable.”
The archdiocese has published details about each pilgrimage site online at lacatholics.org/year-of-st-francis.
