Brothers and sisters,
His Holiness Pope Leo XIV has proclaimed the YEAR OF SAINT FRANCIS celebrating the eighth centenary of the happy passing of Saint Francis of Assisi from earthly life to his heavenly homeland (October 3, 1226).
The Year of Saint Francis started Saturday, January 10, 2026, coinciding with the closing of the Ordinary Jubilee, and will end Sunday, January 10, 2027.
During this year, every faithful Christian, following the example of the Saint of Assisi, is encouraged to become a model of holiness and a constant witness of peace for the Church and for the world.
In the Archdiocese of Atlanta, Archbishop Gregory J. Hartmayer, OFM Conv., has designated these churches to be pilgrimage sites during the Year of St. Francis.
- Holy Cross Catholic Church in Atlanta
- Saint Philip Benizi Catholic Church in Jonesboro
- Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Cartersville
- Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Blairsville
- Saint Anthony of Padua in Atlanta
- Catholic Center at the University of Georgia in Athens
Beginning on the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord, February 2, to the Solemnity of the Baptism of the Lord, January 10, 2027, people can obtain a plenary indulgence by passing through the Pilgrim Door at each church and fulfilling the other requirements:
- Visit to the pilgrimage site
- An act of mercy or penance
- Confession prior to the visit to the pilgrimage site
- Reception of holy communion at the pilgrimage site or at the local parish before or after the visit
- Prayer for intentions of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV at the pilgrimage site
IMPORTANT NOTES
- Large groups must have a priest or deacon accompany them during their pilgrimage and they must arrange their visit with the pilgrim site in advance.
- Individuals should check the times when each parish is open for pilgrims. The churches are not available at all times.
- Since there is only one priest at many of the pilgrimage sites, no confessions will be available for pilgrims on site. We strongly encourage the people to seek confession at their own parish before the pilgrimage.
- If a large group wants to have Mass at the pilgrimage site, they can attend a regularly scheduled Mass or arrange a private Mass before they make the trip..
See document attached for additional information.