Tracing the Legacy of St. Francis of Assisi Eight Centuries Later

Tomeo, an award-winning author and Italy travel expert, explores these historical connections in her latest book, Italy's Shrines and Wonders Volume II. The work functions as both a travel guide and a biographical examination of the saint, timed to coincide with the October 4, 2026, feast day and the 800th anniversary of his passing in Assisi. Her research highlights a movement that now spans 110 countries, counting 650,000 members among its religious and lay orders.

The saint’s reach extends significantly into American history and culture, influencing education, media, and social service. From the nine California missions established by St. Junípero Serra to the media legacy of EWTN founder Mother Angelica, the Franciscan presence remains woven into the U.S. landscape. This influence is also seen in the humanitarian work of figures like Fr. Mychal Judge, who served victims during the September 11 attacks, and the charitable witness of Blessed Solanus Casey in Detroit. As the Franciscan Jubilee Year draws 860,000 visitors to Assisi, the enduring appeal of the 'Saint of Peace' underscores a unique intersection of historical pilgrimage and modern religious identity.