The Archdiocese of Lahore celebrated the Jubilee of Saint Francis of Assisi with a solemn Eucharistic gathering on 22 May 2026 at Sacred Heart Cathedral, Lahore where hundreds of faithful joined priests, religious communities, seminarians, catechists, and youth in a joyful expression of faith and thanksgiving.
Drawing inspiration from the life and spirituality of Saint Francis, the celebration formed part of the worldwide observance of the Jubilee Year of Saint Francis of Assisi (2026–2027), inviting the faithful to renew their Christian life through humility, simplicity, fraternity, and trust in God.
The day began at St. Anthony’s High School, Lahore, where the opening ceremony brought together participants from across the Archdiocese. Archbishop Khalid Rehmat OFM Cap lit the Jubilee candle, marking the beginning of the celebration and symbolizing the light of faith carried by Saint Francis throughout his life and mission. Candles and Jubilee flags were distributed among the faithful before a prayerful procession moved toward Sacred Heart Cathedral with hymns, banners, and joyful expressions of faith.
The solemn Eucharistic celebration at the Cathedral was presided over by His Grace Archbishop Khalid Rehmat OFM Cap, Archbishop of Lahore, together with Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Asi, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Yousaf Mani, Rev. Fr. Ejaz Bashir OFM Cap, Custos of Maryam Sadiqa Custody in Pakistan, Rev. Fr. Asif Sardar, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Lahore, and Rev. Fr. Mughal Peter OFM, along with the clergy of the Archdiocese.
In his homily, Archbishop Khalid reflected on the witness of Saint Francis and paid tribute to the missionaries who served the local Church, particularly the Capuchin and Franciscan missionaries whose sacrifices and dedicated ministry contributed significantly to the growth of the Archdiocese of Lahore.
Reflecting on the final moments of Saint Francis, the Archbishop recalled how the saint asked his friars to remove his clothing and place him on the bare ground before his death. He explained that this was more than a symbolic gesture. It reflected Saint Francis’ complete surrender to God through humility and poverty. Returning to the earth without possessions became a powerful reminder that all things come from God and ultimately return to Him.
He encouraged the faithful to follow the path of Saint Francis by embracing simplicity, humility, and total trust in God, allowing these virtues to shape Christian life and mission.
Following the Eucharistic celebration, participants gathered again at St. Anthony’s High School for the concluding celebrations where Archbishop Khalid, together with major superiors of male and female religious congregations, cut the Jubilee cake. Cultural presentations and songs highlighting the life and message of Saint Francis offered moments of joy and reflection, particularly on his witness of peace and fraternity.
The Jubilee celebration concluded with thanksgiving and renewed commitment among the faithful to live the Gospel spirit of Saint Francis, becoming instruments of peace, humility, and service in the Church and society.
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