On September 13-15, 2024, the Secular Franciscan Order (OFS) of Puerto Rico conducted its National Elective Chapter. The Chapter took place at the Porziuncola Retreat Center located on the outskirts of Utuado, a city in the Central Mountain Range of Puerto Rico. The OFS National Fraternity in Puerto Rico has about 280 members in sixteen local fraternities.
On Friday afternoon, September 13, at 3:00 p.m., the outgoing members of the National Council warmly welcomed the twenty-seven Capitulars and two auditors. At 7:00 p.m., the Chapter Assembly met for an hour of prayer before the Blessed Sacrament. At 8:30 p.m., the members of the outgoing National Council met with Ana Maria RAFFO and Friar Ștefan ACATRINEI, OFM Conv., for a fraternal discussion in view of the celebration of the Chapter. Ms. RAFFO is a Councilor of the International Council of the Secular Franciscan Order for North and Central America. Friar Ștefan is a representative of the Conference of General Spiritual Assistants.
The second day of the Chapter began with Mass at 7:00 a.m., followed by a set program. In the morning, the Capitulars heard reports from the National Minister, the National Treasurer and the National Formator. When the reports were finished, the Capitulars discussed and approved them.
The Chapter proceedings resumed at 1:30 p.m. with a presentation on the priorities of the OFS National Fraternity for the next three years. Friar Ștefan ACATRINEI presented a reflection on “The Stigmata of St. Francis as a Gift of His Attitude of Thanksgiving.”
Ana Maria RAFFO, the Delegate of the OFS General Minister, Tibor KAUSER, presided over the elective part of the Chapter. Efrain VELÁZQUEZ was elected National Minister and International Councilor. Temperatures during the Chapter ranged between 24-31 C° [75-87 F°] with humidity between 80-100%. Despite this, the work of the Chapter continued in the fresh atmosphere of Franciscan joy and peace.
The new National Council was installed during Mass on Sunday with the National Assistant, Friar José David MALDONADO, OFM Cap., presiding. The Chapter ended after lunch.
Friar Ștefan ACATRINEI, OFS General Assistant
