On February 23-27, 2026, the friars of the Provincial Custody of St. Bonaventure in Brazil (Maranhão) held their annual Custodial retreat at the Father Tony Batista Diocesan Center for Spirituality and Pastoral Care in the city of Teresina (State of Piauí), Brazil. Approximately twenty religious participated.
The retreat was led by the Most Reverend Dimas Lara BARBOSA, Archbishop of Campo Grande, (State of Mato Grosso do Sul) Brazil. Archbishop BARBOSA has been serving his archdiocese since 2011.
The retreat was a time of listening, contemplation, and inner renewal. The meditations focused on consecrated life and the teachings of Popes St. John Paul II, Benedict XVI, Francis, and Leo XIV, inviting the participants to rediscover the gift of their vocation.
In addition to preaching and reflection, the program included the Stations of the Cross, the recitation of the Crown of the Seven Sorrows of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and Eucharistic Adoration. The friars also had the opportunity to receive the Sacrament of Penance.
On the last day, after a closing lunch, the friars returned to their respective places of ministry in the formation houses, parishes, and headquarters of the Custody.
As we celebrate the Franciscan Jubilee Year, we hope that each friar may conform his life to Christ Poor and Crucified following the example of St. Francis.
Friar Alessandro RODRIGUES DA SILVA, Continuing Formation Commission
