The situation of our Order in Holland seems clear. We have no more vocations, nor do we currently have a canonically erected friary. The ten remaining friars of the Delegation in Holland reside in various assisted living facilities and the Jurisdiction itself has been a presence of the Province of St. Elizabeth in Germany for almost ten years. Nevertheless, the friars are trying to make the best of the situation.
On October 13-16, 2024, the community gathered for its traditional autumn “community days” event in the “Francisushuis” of the Convent of the Franciscan Sisters in Denekamp, Holland.
After a spiritual reflection by Friar Michiel VAN KOOTEN, the friars celebrated two anniversaries of the Order. Exactly 170 years ago, the friars returned to Holland after having been expelled since the Reformation. Then seventy years ago, the presence was finally elevated to a Province. The friars looked back on this rich history with gratitude.
The second day of the meeting was dedicated to the 25th anniversary of the priestly ordination of Friar Michiel VAN KOOTEN. Friar Thijs MOONS, the Provincial Delegate, presided over the Mass and thanked Friar Michiel for his pastoral commitment. He was pleased to see some friars from Germany attending the celebration, along with some friends of Friar Michiel. A festive lunch added a special culinary flavor to the celebration.
One special moment occurred when the friars received a video call from our newly appointed Cardinal confrere, Archbishop Dominique MATHIEU, a member of the former Province of Belgium. Friar Dominique has been closely linked with the friars of Holland for decades.
Despite the friars’ frailty and advanced age, it is impressive to see how they keep their fraternal relationships alive. They show, with increasing clarity, “how good and how pleasant it is, when brothers dwell together as one!” (Psalm 133:1).
Friar Andreas MURK
