On September 16-20, 2024. The Province of St. Francis of Assisi in Brazil conducted its annual study week. The event took place at the São Francisco de Assis Retreat Center in Campo Largo, Paraná State, Brazil. The purpose of the study week was to address urgent issues relevant to the life of the Province, as reflected in the deliberations of the Provincial Definitory.
On September 16, the week officially began with the celebration of Mass at 6:00 p.m. The entire study week was structured to address three main topics, to be covered over three days, supported by outside consultants, group discussions and plenary sessions.
On Tuesday, September 17, the first day of discussions, the friars were guided by Father Fabiano DIAS PINTO of the Archdiocese of Curitiba, Paraná State. He talked about the culture of preventing the abuse of minors and vulnerable persons, within the universal Church and the Order, as explained in the documents of the Church and the protocol of our Order.
On the second day, Wednesday, September 18, the friars listened to a lecture by Adalto Luiz CHITOLINA. He currently works as a consultant in continuing formation for religious congregations and dioceses, with particular focus on psychology and spirituality. He addressed a very relevant topic for contemporary consecrated life: generational conflicts with an emphasis on the culture of caring for sick brothers and sisters, and the need to understand the challenges of old age.
Finally, on Thursday, September 19, the Minister Provincial, Friar José Hugo da Silva SANTOS, and his Definitory, led reflections on the creation of a new Jurisdiction, starting with the union of the Province of St. Francis in Brazil with the Provincial Custody of the Immaculate Conception of the B.V.M. in Brazil. This discussion was crucial for the future direction of the Province.
During the study week, there were also moments of great celebration. One was a Mass on September 17 at 7:30 p.m. to commemorate the 800th anniversary of St. Francis receiving the stigmata. The Mass was celebrated at the São João Batista Church in Curitiba. Another was a Mass of Remembrance celebrated on September 19, at 8:00 p.m. to honor our deceased confreres. The Mass was took place in the chapel of the São Francisco de Assis Retreat Center.
Friar Pacífico Alves SANTOS, Coordinator of the Provincial Communications Committee
