To mark the 800th anniversary of the Transitus of St. Francis of Assisi, the Italian Cultural Institute in Abu Dhabi, the Embassy of Italy to the UAE and the Apostolic Vicariate of Southern Arabia, on the occasion of the XXVI week of the Italian language in the world present:
800th Anniversary of the Transitus of St. Francis of Assisi
A Legacy from Assisi to the Emirates
Monday, 19 October 2026, at 6:00 p.m.
Italian Cultural Institute Abu Dhabi
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The event will explore the importance of St. Francis’ writings to the Italian language development and their enduring witness to fraternity, peace and dialogue; the origins and essential themes of Franciscan spirituality; and the continuing legacy of St. Francis in the message of Pope Francis. It will also examine the connection between St. Francis’s respect and love for Nature and the sustainable art.
Programme
Institutional Greetings
Susanna Iacona Salafia, Director Italian Cultural Institute Abu Dhabi
H.E. Lorenzo Fanara, Ambassador of Italy to the UAE
H.E. Bishop Paolo Martinelli, OFMCap
Apostolic Vicar of Southern Arabia
St. Francis and His Writings: From Italy to the World
The importance of St. Francis’ writings and their enduring witness to fraternity, peace and dialogue.
Fr. Stefano Luca, OFMCap
Author of The Ten Franciscan Words, Centro Ambrosiano, 2026
The Spirituality of St. Francis: The Ten Franciscan Words
The origins and essential themes of Franciscan spirituality and their relevance for today, presented through a new publication.
Prof. Roberto Catalano
Professor at Sophia University Institute, Italy
From St. Francis to Pope Francis: A Legacy from Assisi to the Emirates
The continuing legacy of St. Francis in the message of Pope Francis, and the journey of fraternity, dialogue and peace from Assisi to the United Arab Emirates.
Sheikh Ali bin Abdullah Al Mualla
Emirati visual artist and engineer
St. Francis and Sustainable Art: An Inspiring Connection
Closing remarks