Pope Leo XIV proclaimed a Franciscan Jubilee Year from January 10, 2026 to January 10, 2027 to mark the 800th Anniversary of the death of St. Francis of Assisi. This year is both a time for spiritual renewal and a call to live the Franciscan legacy of peace, holiness, and care for creation.
On June 18, 2026 Bishop David Ricken designated St. Francis Chapel at Holy Family Convent, 2409 S. Alverno Road, Manitowoc, as a pilgrimage site for the duration of this commemorative year. The chapel is open to pilgrims and visitors seven days a week from 12:30-4:30pm until January 10, 2027.
St. Francis Chapel was dedicated in 1890. Kerosene lamps provided light in the chapel until electricity was installed in 1897. The stained-glass windows were imported from Munich, Germany and are over 120 years old. The windows tell the stories of the Gospels, the Joys of Mary along with special moments in the lives of St. Francis of Assisi and St. Clare. The main altar was hand carved from an oak tree which grew in the neighborhood near the convent by John Falbissoner who was a local artist. Mr. Falbissoner never charged for his work which took four years to complete in his spare time.
In the decree from Bishop Ricken we are reminded that at this designated site and any other Franciscan site during this commemorative year, “the faithful may obtain special graces in the form of a plenary indulgence under the usual conditions through:
- Devout participation in Holy Mass
- Reception of the Sacrament of Reconciliation
- Prayer for the intentions of the Holy Father
- Acts of charity, especially toward the poor.”
We hope that all who come to visit St. Francis Chapel will find it a special place of prayer and peace during this Jubilee year in commemoration of the 800th anniversary of the death of St. Francis.
Be sure to visit the website of the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity for more information about St. Francis chapel and their Franciscan life in community at:
fscc-calledtobe.org