Today, January 22, during the first Provincial Chapter of the new Central Europe Province, the capitular Brothers elected Brother Rudolf Knopp as Provincial. The Chapter marks a historic milestone in the journey of our Order, as it is the first Provincial Chapter following the merger of the Austrian and Bavarian Provinces.

The election of Brother Rudolf Knopp represents a sign of continuity and renewed confidence in the unification process undertaken, aimed at strengthening fraternal communion and responding more effectively to the pastoral and charismatic challenges of our time. The new Provincial is entrusted with the task of guiding the Province through this initial phase, promoting unity, shared responsibility, and fidelity to the charism.

In the afternoon session of the chapter, the Provincial Councilors were elected: Bro. Thomas Pham, Bro. Thomas Väth, Bro. Daniel Katzenschlä, and Bro. Lukás Rynes. They will assist the Superior, Bro. Rudolf, in governance and discernment, contributing to giving concrete shape to the new path of the Central Europe Province. We wish them all a four-year term full of a spirit of service and fidelity to the charism.