Franciscans the world over recently observed the annual Transitus, the solemn memorial of the transition of St. Francis from this world to eternal life. Transitus takes place each year on October 3, the eve of Francis’ death and feast day. In a mysterious and beautiful way, that sacred event was marked this year by the death of Father Benedict Groeschel, C.F.R., one of St. Francis’ most beloved and well-known sons.
Father Benedict was one of the co-founders of the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal. His familiar face on EWTN, and his distinctive voice echoing the eternal vitality of the Gospel of mercy, profoundly touched the hearts of Catholics and non-Catholics alike. His work among the poor in the south Bronx was legendary, and his observance of Franciscan life and the call to “go and rebuild my Church” brought hope and healing to thousands who encountered him. The 1983 book “Spiritual Passages,” his first of the 46 works that he published in his lifetime, is still in print and continues to enjoy worldwide acclaim. Father Benedict’s pastoral zeal brought him around the world, from giving retreats to Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta and her Missionaries of Charity in India, to days of recollection and prayer throughout the United States, including the Diocese of Providence.
When October 3 arrived this year, it brought with it Father Benedict’s final Transitus. His spiritual passage leaves behind not only heavy hearts, but also tremendous gratitude for the light of Christ that he brought to the lives of so many.
