Throughout his life, St. Francis of Assisi encountered the Cross of Christ in profound and transformative ways. These seven “crosses” are not simply physical symbols, but moments of deep spiritual trial, surrender, and grace that marked his journey toward radical holiness and union with Christ.
This retreat is rooted in The Major Legend of the Life of St. Francis by St. Bonaventure, a spiritual classic that reveals how Francis entered ever more deeply into conversion by embracing the Cross in its many forms. Each of these seven “crosses” represents a turning point—a place where Francis met suffering, change, and loss, and responded with love, humility, and trust in God.
As part of the retreat, we will join the Lady Poverty Community of Secular Franciscans for the Transitus, the traditional Franciscan celebration of St. Francis’ passage from life to death. In this sacred moment, we will reflect on the past, present, and future—our own journey through history, through life’s transitions, struggles, and endings, into the promise of greater light and new life.
Through teaching, prayer, and contemplative reflection, retreatants will be invited to walk with St. Francis along his path of transformation. Together, we will explore how Christ meets us in our own “crosses” and invites us—like Francis—to surrender, to hope, and to rise.
St. John the Apostle Building 300
Check-in- begins at 4:00 pm on Friday and the retreat will end with 11:00 am Mass on Sunday morning
Pricing
$270 Private Room
$200, per person, Double Room
$160 Commuter
$25 Gluten Free/Vegan Meals
**Please Note: a $50 non-refundable deposit is required to secure your registration. You will not be registered for the event until this deposit is made. Payment should be made in full two weeks prior to event.
Cancellation Policy: Two weeks before the event, a full refund can be made. If the cancellation is requested within 2 weeks of the event a refund can be given, less the $50 nonrefundable deposit. Please call or email as soon as a cancellation is needed.