A Franciscan Immersion:

Beyond the “Backyard Bird Bath” | Assisi Italy

Spring 2027 (actual dates TBD)

Join Boundless Compassion facilitators, Stella DeVenuta, OSF and Trish Wittig in Assisi, focusing on the Seeds of Compassion as woven through the lives of Francis and Clare of Assisi.

Intention:

  • Create an ecumenical-inclusive experience awakening participants to the values of the Franciscan Spirit.

  • Provide a historical and meaningful connection to the lives of St. Francis and St. Clare of Assisi

  • Consider the Seeds of Compassion (Non-judgement, Mindfulness, Non-Violence, Forgiveness)
    as lived through the shared humanity of Francis and Clare.

  • Integrate elements of creative expression (poetry, art, journaling, music) as a means of sharing.  

  • Encourage participants to be steeped in the local and historical cultural experience of Assisi.

This nine-day Franciscan focused Immersion blends the historic cultural view of two most beloved saints in history. The Seeds of Compassion are foundational and transformative, exhibiting an approach to spirituality that merges contemplation with a radical heartfelt outer response.

For St. Francis, St. Clare and their followers, the seeds of compassion were mirrored through life encounters that connected them the world around them and unfolded through a commitment to poverty and Gospel living.

Francis illustrated compassion through his mercy for the marginalized, while Clare’s Compassion was illuminated through deep contemplative love, healing and prayer. Together, their bond was rooted in the shared humanity of suffering and prayer. This deeply spiritual “sisterly-brotherly” friendship was both profound and chaste; attracting many to follow in their footsteps, then and today. Francis and Clare have
left a Legacy of Compassion for the world both then and now.

 The late Spring 2027 Franciscan Immersion is now accepting possible “interest” and open to 14 participants and welcoming persons of all faiths who desire a deeper understanding of living the Seeds of compassion through the Franciscan Spirit. For further information or interest please contact us at: stellaosf@lakeosfs.org