As we approach the conclusion of the Franciscan Jubilee Year, proclaimed by Pope Leo XIV to mark the 800th anniversary of the transitus of St. Francis of Assisi, its fruits continue to multiply. Franciscan spirituality, which has gained new momentum during this time of grace, continues to spark interest and inspire new formation initiatives and opportunities for fellowship.
Regarding initial formation, the “Rioplatense” Province of St. Anthony of Padua in Argentina-Uruguay currently has two student friars, one novice in Cascavel, Brazil, and four aspirants at the Inmaculada Concepción Friary in José León Suárez, in Argentina’s Buenos Aires Province.
The four aspirants took advantage of a visit from Friar Ștefan ACATRINEI, OFM Conv., General Spiritual Assistant to the Secular Franciscan Order (OFS), to deepen their understanding of Franciscan spirituality and learn more about St. Francis of Assisi.
On Tuesday, October 20, 2026, Friar Ștefan gave two lectures to the young aspirants, guiding them in exploring the wisdom of St. Francis as expressed in his Admonitions, with particular emphasis on the second admonition. The following day, Wednesday, October 21, Friar Ștefan lectured on the final years of Francis’s life, highlighting his human dimension and focusing on the difficulties and challenges he faced.
This reflection helped the participants better understand St. Francis’s human and spiritual experience and recognize him as a guide for facing and overcoming life’s difficulties. The peace, serenity, and joy with which he welcomed “Sister Death” thus remain a source of inspiration for our own journey.
Friar Ștefan’s fraternal presence was particularly valuable and meaningful. In addition to leading the formation sessions, he joined the local friars and lay parishioners for prayer and celebrated Mass with them.
Friar Javier Alberto FONTANA
Minister Provincial
