On October 11-15, 2021, the friars of the Provincial Custody of Mary, Mother of Mercy in Central America met online to celebrate their Pre-Chapter Assembly. This was in preparation for their next Ordinary Custodial Chapter scheduled for January of 2022.
The Pre-Chapter Assembly was a new experience. It provided a clear opportunity for reflection, evaluation and discernment concerning the journey of the Custody. At the same time, it was helpful in planning out the desired future of the Custody for the next four years.
Over the course of this fraternal gathering, reports were read, starting with the report of the Minister Provincial of the Mother Province of Our Lady of Consolation in the USA, Friar Wayne HELLMANN; of the Custos, Friar Jorge A. DOBLES ULLOA; and of the Presidents of the various commissions that carry out the commitments of the Jurisdiction. The friars focused their reports by applying the “FODA” formula (Strengths, Opportunities, Weaknesses and Warnings). This allowed for a broader and more realistic view of what had occurred over the last four years and what is desired for the future.
During the Assembly, the friars also celebrated a spiritual day (October 14), coordinated by Friar Wayne and the Most Reverend Enrique MONTERO UMAÑA, OFM Conv., Bishop of San Isidro de El General, Costa Rica. The topics for reflection were “Authority in the Manner of Jesus and St. Francis,” and “The Great Ministry of Service That Must Always Characterize Our Presence.”
Grateful to God Most High, the Assembly established new paths toward the next Custodial Chapter, where the friars hope to continue their humble service in Central America, guided by the light of the Holy Spirit.
Friar Pablo Alonso CARVAJAL ESPINOZA
