Finding Francis
a sister’s ever-changing experiences as she leads Franciscan Pilgrimages
A group of pilgrims listens intently as Sister Nancy Celaschi explains the significance of San Damiano in Assisi.
Sister Nancy sets the scene at Greccio for pilgrims on a terrace overlooking the Rieti Valley.
Sister Nancy accompanies pilgrims to Sunday liturgy in one of the chapels at St. Mary of the Angels in Assisi.
Pilgrimage photos courtesy of Brother Bob Rodde, OFM
One of the most unique ministry positions held by our sisters is that of Sister Nancy Celaschi with the Franciscan Pilgrimage Programs, an organization that offers about 30 pilgrimages each year to Rome and Assisi.
As a leader, Sister Nancy reflects on the lives of Francis and Clare and their early companions, where the events took place and helps the pilgrims apply these values to their own lives. Conferences and rituals enhance the message, including a particularly powerful reenactment of the “funeral” of the leper in 13th Century Assisi. “It really hammers home the impact of what Francis describes as the turning point in his conversion – when the Lord led him among the lepers and he did mercy with them,” Sister says.
“Each pilgrimage feels like unwrapping a gift … one never knows what to expect.”
Some of the trips are “off-the-rack” pilgrimages to Franciscan places, while others offer an understanding of Franciscan spirituality. There are even “designer” pilgrimages, made to order for special groups such as healthcare institutions, Franciscan university faculty, U.S. military veterans, and high school and college students. This summer, Sister Nancy led a group of pilgrims on a “St. Bonaventure Adventure” of sorts, a special trip to mark the eighth centennary of the birth of the Italian theologian and philosopher.
One of the program’s favorite pilgrimages is for U.S. military veterans, mostly Vietnam-era vets. “They reflect on Francis’ experience as a soldier, a prisoner of war, a veteran possibly suffering from PTSD, and a ‘pacifist,’” Sister explains. The staff includes a retired military chaplain and a psychologist who works with veterans. Generous donors help to keep the costs of this pilgrimage down, as “it has been a truly life-changing experience for the veterans,” Sister says.
Visit www.franciscanpilgrimages.com to learn more about the Franciscan Pilgrimage Programs.
Sister Nancy Celaschi
read more sisters’ travelogues
Where Jesus Walked
The Splendor of India I
The Splendor of India II
The Splendor of India III