ROME — As the friars continue to prepare for this year’s General Chapter, Br. William Short, OFM, secretary of the chapter, shared a preview of the event with Fraternitas, the Order’s newsletter.
In a question and answer session, Br. William outlines the schedule to be followed by the chapter, from reviewing the reports of the general minister and the offices of the Curia, to approving any changes to the general statutes during week three. The chapter will take place from May 10 to June 7.
The election of the general minister is scheduled for May 21, with the election of the General Vicar on May 22 and the elections of the General Definitors on May 23. “In this way, we will celebrate the feast of Pentecost with the new government of the Order in the Porziuncola,” explained Br. William, a member of the California-based St. Barbara Province.
Pope Francis will receive the friar capitulars during the third week of the chapter. Other recreational events and day trips are in the process of being planned. More information about the General Chapter can be found in the interview with Br. William.
Fraternitas also announced the appointment of former General Vicar Fr. Giles Bordeau, OFM, of St. Joseph Province in Eastern Canada, as General Visitor for the Curia. Fr. Giles began his visit on Feb. 27 and will continue until March 16.
Other news from the Order of Friars Minor includes:
- The General Minister’s February fraternal visit to four of the Order’s entities in Asia: the foundations of Myanmar and Thailand, the Province of Indonesia and the Custody of Singapore
- The celebration of the feast of the Pontifical University Antonianum and its Grand Chancellor, Fr. Michael, as well as the 20th anniversary of the Antonianum’s recognition as a pontifical university
- The release of the book “Franciscan Philosophy and Theology: Study in the OFM Province of Fulda in the 20th Century” by Fr. Johannes Schlageter, OFM. The Province of Turingia, from which many pioneer friars of Holy Name Province came, organized philosophical and theological formation in its convents until 1967. Fr. Johannes traces the course of these studies in the context of political, theological and religious developments.
— Compiled by Maria Hayes