The feast of St. Francis of Assisi may soon return to Italy’s national calendar. Lawmakers in the Chamber of Deputies voted on September 23 to approve a proposal that would make October 4, a day already cherished by Catholics worldwide, an official holiday once again. According to Catholic News Agency, the measure passed with 247 votes in favor, only two against, and eight abstentions.
The bill still requires a vote in the Senate before becoming law, but support has been strong across party lines. The proposal was introduced by the center-right party Noi Moderati (“Us Moderates”).
A Patron of Italy and of Peace
St. Francis, recognized as the patron saint of Italy, has inspired generations with his love for Christ, creation, and peace. His feast was celebrated nationwide until 1977, when it was removed from the holiday calendar.
The president of the Chamber of Deputies, Lorenzo Fontana, welcomed the decision, stating: “I am delighted that the chamber has given the initial green light to this proposal: Rediscovering St. Francis also means reviving his message of peace, which is more relevant than ever,” according to Catholic News Agency.
The year 2026 will carry special meaning, as it marks the 800th anniversary of the saint’s death in 1226, a jubilee year expected to draw significant celebrations in Assisi and throughout Italy.
Faith and Civic Life
If approved, the feast of St. Francis would stand alongside Italy’s 12 other national holidays, eight of which are rooted in the Catholic faith, including Christmas, the Assumption of Mary, and All Saints’ Day. Others commemorate civic milestones such as the liberation of Italy in 1945 and the founding of the Republic in 1946.
For Catholics, the restoration of this holiday would be more than a matter of national policy. It would be an opportunity for Italy to publicly honor the saint whose witness continues to shape not only the Church, but also the conscience of a nation.
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