The Irish
Franciscans are gathered for their Provincial Chapter - held every three
years - from Sunday 29 June to Friday 4 July. The meeting takes place
in the Franciscan College, Gormanston, Co Westmeath.
During the
week some 90 friars, including two friars from our Custody in Zimbabwe,
will pray, reflect, discuss and make important decisions. With both
Irish society and the Church going through a time of major transition we
Friars Minor need to make sure that our life and mission are responding
to 'the signs of the times' - our times.
The theme for the
Chapter is taken from Pope Francis' apostolic exhortation, The Joy of
the Gospel: 'Missionary disciples, witnesses who never cease to be
disciples!'
We are honoured that our Minister General, Michael
Perry OFM, will be with us to lead us in a 'spiritual day' on Monday.
However St Francis teaches us that the Holy Spirit is the true Minister
General of our Order. If we are not being open and docile to His
inspirations and guidance little else matters!
We ask you to pray with us that the Spirit of the Lord may be with us with divine grace, light and courage.
May our deliberations be guided by His wisdom. May whatever decisions
we reach help us live more faithfully the Gospel life we have promised,
and may they bring glory to God and serve His people.
Please keep us in
your prayers!
