On May 6-10, 2024, the Province of St. Maximilian M. Kolbe in Poland (Gdańsk) conducted the second part of its eleventh Ordinary Chapter. The Chapter was held at the Education and Formation Center of the Diocese of Koszalin-Kołobrzeg in Koszalin, Poland.
The Chapter deliberations were mainly focused on drafting the Provincial Four-Year Plan and formulating various Motions that dealt with particularly important changes and decisions. The work of the Chapter, in keeping with the Directory of the Chapters, was carried out partly in full assembly and partly in groups―where each friar was able to share his personal experience and speak about the issues under discussion.
After the Motions and the Provincial Four-Year Plan were approved, the Capitulars elected the new Guardians of the friaries of the Province, those located in Poland and those abroad. They also elected the friars in charge of formation as well as the presidents of the Provincial commissions.
One special moment during the Chapter was an academic symposium entitled: “The Franciscans in Pomerania.” Before attending this formational part of the Chapter, the Capitulars celebrated Mass at the cathedral in Koszalin. The Most Reverend Zbigniew ZIELIŃSKI, Bishop of Koszalin-Kołobrzeg, presided. This was followed by three lectures. Professor Grzegorz WEJMAN spoke on “The Franciscans before the Reformation.” Friar Józef MAKARCZYK, OFM Conv., lectured on “The Franciscans in the Diocese of Koszalin-Kołobrzeg, Yesterday and Today.” Finally, Krystyna BASTOWSKA spoke on “The Merits of the Franciscans in Saving Koszalin’s Historic Churches.”
The Chapter concluded on Friday, May 10, with the new Guardians swearing their oath of office and all the Capitulars praying for the friars who died during the previous four years.
Friar Piotr KUREK
