On September 9-13, 2019, the Union of Conventual Franciscans of Brazil (UCOB) hosted an ongoing formation meeting for pastors belonging to the Order’s four Brazilian Jurisdictions.

The meeting took place at the Emmaus House Retreat Center at the São Bento Monastery in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
The event was organized and coordinated by Friar Michel da Cruz Alves dos SANTOS of the Provincial Custody of the Immaculate Conception of the B.V.M. in Brazil (Rio de Janeiro). Seventeen pastors participated.
A Benedictine monk, Father Anselmo CHAGAS, led a reflection covering areas of Canon Law that deal with the sacraments, spirituality and pastoral care. The friars had the opportunity to update their knowledge on parochial ministry, the relationship with the Assistant Pastor (rights and duties), Eucharistic theology, cases of matrimonial nullity, sanatio in radice, etc.
The meeting schedule included time for fraternity, liturgical celebration and study. The participants were also able to spend some time together making a pilgrimage to the Shrine of Christ the Redeemer in Corcovado, where they celebrated Mass.
The meeting successfully met its objectives; in communion, dialogue, fraternal sharing and providing updates on recent theological reflections regarding the service of parish ministry.

Friar Carlos Roberto de Oliveira CHARLES, OFM Conv.