This October, the faithful are invited to embark on a unique journey of prayer, reflection, and community as part of the St. Francois d’Assise of Jubilee Year.
On Saturday, October 3, the Archdiocese of Ottawa-Cornwall will host a mini-pilgrimage through four historic Catholic parishes in Ottawa, culminating in a special Season of Creation Mass celebrated by Archbishop Marcel Damphousse, followed by a series of events honoring the legacy of St. Francois d’Assise .
More than a walk between churches, this pilgrimage offers an opportunity to deepen one’s faith, encounter fellow pilgrims, celebrate God’s creation, and experience the rich spiritual heritage of the Franciscan tradition.
A Pilgrimage Through Four Catholic Parishes
The pilgrimage begins at St. Francois d’Assise Parish, where participants will register, receive their official Jubilee Pilgrim Passport, and gather for opening instructions before setting out on foot.
Pilgrims will journey to four churches:
- St. Francois d’Assise Parish
- Queen of the Most Holy Rosary Parish
- St. Mary’s Parish
- St. Anthony of Padua Parish
Each parish will welcome pilgrims with bilingual reflections, inspirational music, water stations, washroom facilities, and opportunities to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
These moments of prayer and hospitality invite participants to pause, reflect, and continue their spiritual journey together.
A Day of Prayer, Reflection, and Celebration
The pilgrimage concludes with a general blessing for the pilgrims at St. Francois d’Assise Parish, followed by the 5:00 p.m. Mass for the Season of Creation, celebrated by Archbishop Marcel Damphousse.
Following Mass, participants are invited to remain for several special events:
- Presentation of the John Dorner Care for Creation Award
- The Transitus, a moving Franciscan ceremony led by the Franciscans and Capuchins commemorating the passing of St. Francois d’Assise into eternal life
- A community reception celebrating fellowship and the conclusion of the pilgrimage
Together, these moments offer participants a meaningful opportunity to celebrate the life, spirituality, and enduring witness of St. St. Francois while sharing in the joy of the Jubilee Year.
Registration
Advance registration is encouraged to help organizers prepare for the pilgrimage and to ensure that each participant receives an official Jubilee Pilgrim Passport.
A suggested offering of $10 per person is appreciated to help offset the costs of organizing the event. Donations may be made by e-transfer to France.hotte@ottawacornwall.ca or by cash payment at departure during the registration process.
While the suggested offering is greatly appreciated, everyone is warmly welcome to participate regardless of their ability to contribute.
Join the Journey
Whether you are seeking a meaningful spiritual experience, celebrating the St. Francois d’Assise Jubilee Year, or simply looking for a day of prayer, fellowship, and renewal, this pilgrimage offers a unique opportunity to walk together in faith.
To ensure a safe, peaceful, and well-organized pilgrimage, participants are encouraged to walk in small groups of approximately (no more than) four people. This will help facilitate the organization of the event, promote a prayerful atmosphere, and minimize congestion along sidewalks and at road crossings.
Come journey through Ottawa’s Catholic communities, reflect on God’s presence in creation, celebrate the witness of St. Francis, and conclude the day united in prayer and thanksgiving.
All are warmly invited to participate in this special Jubilee pilgrimage.
