Public Display of St. Francis' Bones: A Boon and Bane for Assisi
For the first time ever, the remains of St. Francis of Assisi, a significant figure in Christian history who was the muse for Pope Francis and countless believers, are being displayed in public. This significant event is taking place in his hometown, located atop a hill in Umbria, bringing both excitement and concern to the local community.
Concerns Over the Public Exhibition
The month-long public display of St. Francis' relics, initiated to celebrate 800 years since his passing, has drawn a huge crowd of devotees to the town. As of now, nearly half a million people are estimated to visit and pay their respects before the relics are returned to their resting place. This mass influx of visitors has put the town's mayor, Valter Stoppini, and the local Franciscan friars in a tight spot.
The town, with its narrow, souvenir-filled streets and limited resources, is expected to face a considerable strain due to this. Even though Assisi is no stranger to receiving large numbers of pilgrims, such a prolonged exposure is unprecedented. The local residents, while accustomed to short-term celebrations, are bracing themselves for the challenges this month-long event could bring.
St. Francis: A Beacon for Christendom
Assisi, with its unique pink-glowing limestone structure, is a well-known Christian pilgrimage site. Every year, millions visit this place, drawn by the tomb of St. Francis and the magnificent basilica decorated with Giotto's frescoes, narrating the saint's life.
St. Francis, hailing from a wealthy family, chose to live a life of simplicity after receiving a divine call to revamp the Church. His teachings of peace, love for creation, and care for the poor have influenced many, including Pope Francis, who chose his papal name in honor of the saint.
Public Display: A Chance to Keep His Message Alive
Though St. Francis' remains have been periodically inspected for preservation purposes, this is the first time they are open for public viewing. The decision to temporarily move the remains from their crypt and welcome devotees is an attempt to keep St. Francis' teachings alive and provide an opportunity for Christians to pray in their presence.
The Rise of a New Saint in Assisi
While St. Francis continues to be a prominent figure, a newly canonized saint, Carlo Acutis, is attracting a new wave of pilgrims, especially among the younger generations. Acutis, who passed away at 15 due to leukemia, is now known as the Catholic Church's first millennial saint. His popularity has transformed Assisi into a religious hotspot for Catholic youth groups.
Interestingly, the growing number of pilgrims visiting both the saints has created a positive interflow. As Brother Marco Moroni, the custodian of St. Francis' convent, puts it, "Many who come to the basilica go to see Carlo, and many who go to Carlo Acutis come to the basilica."
The Impact on Local Businesses
Despite the strain, the surge in religious tourism is a boon for local businesses, especially souvenir sellers who depend on the influx of pilgrims. For them, the month-long event is a welcome change, and they are positive about the impact on their businesses.
To manage the increased traffic, the town has set up additional parking spaces outside the city center and initiated a shuttle service for the visitors. Some locals, like Riccardo Bacconi, believe the new parking arrangements could be a lasting benefit for the town post the event.
Though the event brings its challenges, the locals understand the importance of tourism to their economy. "There are more advantages than disadvantages," Bacconi said, emphasizing the economic significance of such events.