The Assembly of Major Superiors opened yesterday, Monday 29th November, at the General Curia, and will end on 3 December. Some Provincials, Bro. Timothy GRAHAM, Bro. Donatus FORKAN, Bro. Joseph VUONG, Bro. Joseph Yanka SHARMA and the General Councillor, Bro. Joseph SMITH, are unable to attend the Assembly in person because of the health restrictions in their countries, but they are linked via Zoom to the meeting and are taking part at the times available depending on the time zones.

The Assembly is being attended by all the other Provincial Superiors, and it opened with the celebration of the Eucharist at which the Superior General, Bro. Jesús Etayo, presided.  In his opening address, the Superior General briefly recalled the objectives of the Assembly, and thanked Our Lord for giving the Brothers and Co-workers the strength, hope, courage and spirit of self-denial to practise Hospitality in an exemplary manner in this difficult time of the pandemic.

The Prior General then referred to the beginning of a new liturgical year, which is marked by to the beginning of the powerful season of Advent, a time of waiting and journeying towards Christmas, the commemoration of the historical coming of Jesus our Saviour into the history of humanity through His incarnation. In conclusion, the Prior General held up the figure of the Roman centurion, whose faith is an example of trust and hope in the One who is coming to the shadows and bring His wondrous light to humanity. Listing the many important issues that will be discussed during the Assembly for the future of the Order, the Father General concluded his address.

The major topics to be addressed by the Major Superiors are:

Provincial Chapters: "Charismatic discernment for a new beginning". Paper given by Fr José Cristo Rey GARCIA PAREDES, CMF

What future for our Order? Open dialogue on the present situation and possible new ideas and proposals, animated by Brother Joaquim Erra.

Finance Commission:

New criterion for the breakdown of  the Provinces' financial contribution to the General Curia

Stable Patrimony: Some examples of the composition of the stable patrimony to be approved by each Province at the next Provincial Chapters.

Brief presentation (15 minutes) of the current situation in each Province, taking into account the impact of the pandemic

The "Laudato Si" Platform: proposals and commitments for the Order, animated by Brother Joaquim Erra

Meetings by Region and sharing in plenary