Islamabad-Rawalpindi Diocese Marks St Francis’ 800th Jubilee in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD, Pakistan, October 5, 2026: The Diocese of Islamabad-Rawalpindi, in collaboration with the Franciscan community, marked the 800th Jubilee of the Passing of St Francis of Assisi on September 29, bringing together clergy, religious, children and lay faithful for a celebration centred on Gospel living, humility and service.

The programme opened with a welcome by Fr Azam Siddique OFM Cap, who reflected on the significance of the jubilee. Children presented tableaux depicting key moments in the life and spirituality of St Francis. A dove was released as a symbol of peace and reconciliation, followed by a jubilee symbol and balloon ceremony.

Holy Mass formed the centre of the celebration, with the Gospel proclaimed by Fr Asif John, Vicar General. Archbishop Joseph Arshad of Islamabad-Rawalpindi presided over the Eucharist and reflected on the saint’s radical commitment to Christ, simplicity, humility and love for creation.

In his homily, Archbishop Arshad recalled how Francis abandoned a comfortable and promising life to embrace poverty, simplicity and complete dedication to God. He said Francis did not merely preach the Gospel but sought to embody it through his life, becoming a witness to Christian discipleship and trust in God.

The Archbishop urged the faithful to understand Christian greatness through humility, service and selfless love, drawing on Christ’s call to become “the least” in order to be great in God’s sight.

Addressing religious men and women in particular, he encouraged them to draw inspiration from Francis’ commitment to poverty, obedience, prayer, humility and service. He said the saint’s life remains a reminder that consecrated life is fundamentally a call to faithful discipleship and authentic Gospel witness.

Reflecting on the Feast of the Archangels, Archbishop Arshad also highlighted their role as messengers and servants of God, presenting them as examples of obedience, fidelity, protection and service.

He emphasised that Franciscan spirituality has relevance beyond religious communities, calling all Christians to free themselves from excessive attachment to material possessions and deepen their love for God, the poor, creation and one another.

The jubilee celebration concluded with a renewed call to the Christian community in Pakistan to follow the example of St Francis by embracing simplicity, humility, service and a more authentic living of the Gospel.

By Rabeel Aslam

Representative, Social Media Communication

Islamabad/Rawalpindi Diocese, Pakistan