The national fraternity of the Secular Franciscan Order (OFS) of El Salvador has 250 members distributed among five regional fraternities. On Friday, May 16, 2025, at 3:00 p.m., fifty-nine Capitulars and eight auditors gathered at the retreat center of the Friars Minor in Santiago de María, Department of Usulután, El Salvador, to celebrate their 13th National Chapter.
The Chapter opened with Mass presided over by Friar Ștefan ACATRINEI, OFM Conv., representing the Conference of General Spiritual Assistants (CAS).
The second day of the Chapter (May 17) began at 6:00 a.m. with the recitation of the Franciscan Crown. The morning was dedicated hearing reports and working in groups. At 2:00, the elective session began, presided over by Ana María RAFFO LAOS, the Delegate of the OFS Minister General, Tibor KAUSER. Sonia Margarita ZALDAÑA FLORES was elected the National Minister and International Councilor. After the elective session, the Capitulars went in procession to the Cathedral church of the city, where they passed through the Holy Door and celebrated Mass at 7:00 p.m. with the National Spiritual Assistant of the Friars Minor, Friar Ramón DE LA O, presiding. After spending a happy evening together, the participants concluded the day at 10:30 p.m. with the recitation of Compline.
The last day (May 18) began at 6:00 a.m. with Morning Prayer. The participants then began a session to plan for the next three years. The new National Council was installed during Mass at 11:00 a.m., with Friar Ramón presiding. The Chapter concluded after the Mass.
The Capitulars took their leave after lunch, while the representatives of the International Council of the Secular Franciscan Order (CIOFS) met with the outgoing Council and with the incoming one.
The Chapter proceedings were conducted in a spirit of peace and joy.
Friar Ștefan ACATRINEI
