FEAST OF SAINT FRANCIS - October 4, 2006 by icunme
It is understandable that this feast day is so special to the people of Trastevere and, in particular, the parish of St Francis di Ripa. Masses were held to overflowing crowds throughout the day and culminated with a procession. Leading the procession, parishioners carried banners honoring St Francis - followed by Franciscan monks, a band playing along the way, local parishioners bearing the Statue of St Francis taking Christ from the Cross, the Pastor carrying the relic of St. Francis, and those who came to walk with him and pay their tribute.This was home to St Francis in 1229 when he ventured to Rome to seek approval of the Pope for his order. Francis undertook this mission reluctantly and only to protect his community and prevent possible persecution for heresy by many adversaries.
In the 17th century the church was rebuilt and dedicated to Francis, the Ripa ("shore") referring to the shore of the Tevere (Tiber) river.
In the cell where the saint lived in this church is the black stone he had used as a cushion. An orange tree planted by St Francis thrives in the garden of the church.
