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Regional Council of the Five Franciscan Martyrs Election
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October 7, 2020When I was assigned to the new friary in South Florida, I knew that I would be ministering to the Order of Secular Franciscans, O.F.S., in different capacities. My period of introduction to the different fraternities were moments of fraternal joy.
At the beginning of 2020, the Regional Executive Council (REC) had already scheduled and planned the regional election to be held on April 24-26, 2020 with the theme, “Come, Holy Spirit.” Then because of the pandemic the election was on the verge of being cancelled. There was no other choice but to storm heaven with prayers. Amidst the chaos, the Good Lord heard and answered our prayers by opening a small window.
On September 22 and 23, 2020, we gathered to elect the new Regional Council of the Five Franciscan Martyrs Region who cover Southern Georgia and Florida. Even with the the limitations set by the conference center (wearing face masks, establish social distancing, no Franciscan hugs), we could sense the Holy Spirit working among the members present.
This was my second time participating in an election at the regional level, I had the honor of serving as an ecclesial witness on behaf of the National Spiritual Assistant, Fr. Christopher Panagoplos, TOR. It was an inspiring moment to witness the fraternal joy, contagious energy, dedication and faith.
The National Executive Council and the USA National Secular Franciscan Order were represented by Donna Hollis, OFS, who traveled from New Mexico. Donna described the regional election “as a chance to meet with members of our Order and listen to their experiences.” She also stated, "we are called in building up relationships with one another, encouraging their work, and making sure they feel valued and respected.” All of us experienced the Franciscan spirit along with the excitement of who would be the next OFS member to serve in the regional council.
We, the Capuchin Franciscan Friars of the Province of the Sacred Stigmata, congratulate the former and new REC for their new election. May the members of the Five Franciscan Martyrs Region continue living the Franciscan way by going from the Gospel to Life and Life to the Gospel.