November 24-26, 2025, the Seraphicum International College in Rome hosted the annual meeting of Conventual Franciscan friars from Romania who serve abroad. Fifty-five friars attended, coming from Italy, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, France, and Spain. Also present was the Minister Provincial of the Province of St. Joseph, Spouse of the B.V.M. in Romania, Friar Damian-Gheorghe PĂTRAȘCU.
The program stood out for its variety and careful organization. On Monday, November 24, the friars enjoyed a fraternal evening together. On Tuesday, November 25—during the Jubilee Year of Hope—the friars made a pilgrimage to the Papal Basilica of St. John Lateran, followed by a visit to the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major. At both basilicas, they crossed the threshold of the Holy Doors, which had been opened for the Jubilee Year. At the Basilica of St. Mary Major, the friars prayed in silence at the tomb of Pope Francis and celebrated Mass in a spirit of faith and communion.
In the afternoon, fraternal fellowship continued in the Sixtus V Hall of the Seraphicum College, where Friar Damian, after thanking everyone for their dedication and service, encouraged the friars to live their vocation and mission in the spirit of Franciscan simplicity and joy. The friars were then honored by a visit from His Excellency George Gabriel BOLOGAN, Ambassador of Romania to the Holy See. After his initial greeting, he talked about Romania’s diplomatic mission to the Vatican, the Christian roots of Europe, the responsibility of Franciscan friars, priests, and all people, as bearers of hope. He also discussed the challenges that face contemporary humanity in the digital age.
His visit concluded with an open and cordial discussion, enriched by many questions, which the Ambassador answered with openness and a fraternal spirit. At the end of the day, the friars spent some more time together in fellowship and fraternal communion.
On Wednesday, November 26, the participants attended the General Audience in St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican. It was the highlight of the meeting. The friars got to greet Pope Leo XIV, exchange a few words with him and take a group photo. Afterwards, they entered the basilica through the Holy Door and celebrated Mass.
We thank God for the blessed gift of this meeting and for the fraternal time we spent together. Special thanks go to the friars who organized it, as well as to each friar who attended. May the Lord bless everyone with His peace and goodness!
Friar Adrian COBZARU
