Pilgrimage to Assisi: Young people experience the peace of Franz von Assisi

Pilgrimage to Assisi: Young people experience the peace of Franz von Assisi

in the picturesque city of Assisi, surrounded by gentle hills in the Italian region, a group of 31 young people from the Kapfenburg pastoral care unit went on an extraordinary pilgrimage. Under the direction of family officer Petra Koch and theologian Matthias Bux, you will experience what it means to change in the footsteps of Franz von Assisi. The trip not only offers a spiritual company, but also an impressive connection to the history and philosophy of the saint.

Samuel and Ben, two young people who took part in the pilgrimage, share their impressions of Franz von Assisi, whose modest life and spiritual devotion fascinates them. "It is blatant that he managed to live like this," says Samuel and emphasizes the simplicity of Franz's lifestyle, which often slept on a stone. This honest way of life, filled with gratitude for creation, is characterized by the tranquil atmosphere of Assisi.

unique experiences and memories

A total of nine nights spent a total of nine nights in Assisi, flanked by excursions to the surrounding cities of Siena, Perugia and Spoleto. The pilgrimage offered the participants the unique opportunity to combine cultural and spiritual highlights. Marit enthusiastically reports from the hike to the "Rocca Maggiore", a historically important place, while Jakob describes an abandoned monastery as an impressive experience. "That would not be the case with us," notes Ben thoughtfully and is amazed at the differences between the regions.

Special spiritual moments experienced the young people during a prayer at the sea and a trade fair in Italian in the Basilica San Francesco. In these spiritual moments, the young people felt the connection to Franz von Assisi and his legacy. "It was just great," the participants agree. The possibility of visiting these historical and religious sites made the pilgrimage an unforgettable experience.

An important part of this pilgrimage was Sister Marie-Catherine Müller, the Franciscan, who worked for two years in the Deanery Ostalb. At her former workplace, she took the young people on a journey that transfers the philosophy and life of Franz von Assisi into modern times. "She understood to transfer the life and philosophy of Franz von Assisi to today," says Petra Koch.

The Casa della Pace - a house of peace

The "Casa della Pace", in German "House of Peace", is a facility that is operated by the Franciscans of Sießen. Here guests have the opportunity to share life in the sense of St. Franz von Assisi. This exchange and meeting place invites you to walk in the footsteps of spirituality at its lives.

In the Casa della Pace, visitors can expect exciting encounters and inspiring walks at historical sites by St. Francis. The hikes lead to the height on the mountains and the depths of the valleys, where Francis used to withdraw to prayer.

The focus is on the silence that can be experienced in walking and in the community in order to recognize the presence of God in his own life. In San Damiano, the community also establishes contact with the Franciscan brothers with which prayers, songs and festivals are committed.

Overall, the pilgrimage to Assisi impressively shows how the teachings and life of Franz von Assisi can inspire and inspire today. The young people from Kapfenburg not only gathered spiritual experiences, but also created valuable memories that they will take home with them.