On Monday, February 6, 2023, the annual meeting of the Provincial Delegation in Germany of the Province of St. Maximilian M. Kolbe in Poland (Gdańsk) was held in Lage, Germany.
Because the friars at the friary in Lage (a presence of the Province of St. Elizabeth in Germany) were so cordial and hospitable, the meeting really began the previous evening, with dinner and community recreation.
On Monday morning, the friars celebrated Mass with the local community. The meeting then began with prayer, followed by greetings from Friar Krzysztof ROBAK, Delegate of the Minister Provincial in Germany. Friar Krzysztof explained the agenda. In view of the imminent closure of the Gelsenkirchen friary, scheduled for April 16, 2023, the topic of opening a new presence in Germany was addressed. Furthermore, there was an exchange of observations and experiences regarding life and work in the dioceses of Germany.
The Econom of the Delegation, Friar Ireneusz WOJTKO, presented the financial status of the Delegation and of the Minoriten Maximilian Kolbe association. Next, the Minister Provincial, Friar Wojciech KULIG, thanked all those present for their pastoral service and for the financial contribution the Province made to the budget. Moreover, he talked about additional projects, asking for financial support. It was decided to support the Order’s missions and the Solidarity Fund again this year.
After lunch, Friar Bernhardin SEITHER, the Guardian of Lage, led the way to the Shrine of the Holy Cross, where our confreres serve. After this wonderful visit, the meeting was concluded and the participants returned to their friaries.
Friar Krzysztof ROBAK