The third day of the Chapter of Mats began with the celebration of Morning prayer in language groups. During the morning session, the General Minister presented to the young friars his reflection, talking about the Letter that he wrote for this occasion and that was given to the friars presents. br. José R. Carballo remembered that each brother is always on the way towards the full accomplishment of his vocation and that none can consider himself arrived or that does not need a permanent and ongoing formation.
Following Jesus Christ requires radicalism with the relinquishment of material goods, with oneself and his affectivity; it requires the friar to leave the material and affective securities, to put his faith only in Christ. In this current situation of ‘faith crisis’ amongst the young friars of the Order the urgent challenge is to remain strong and vigilant against the tyranny of relativism.
And to rediscover every day the fidelity of ones own life on five fundamental pillars: common prayer (Eucharist and Word of God); personal prayer; commitment and responsibility in fraternity; attention to the poor; ongoing formation and spiritual support. After the talk the friars divided themselves in twelve linguistic groups to reflect and to respond to the invitation of the General Minister.
In the afternoon each group provided feedback and time was set aside for fraternal discussion with the General Minister. At 6.30 pm the votive Mass of St Joseph was celebrated. The General Vicar, br. Francesco Bravi presided. After supper the participants then enjoyed a concert with the local community including music provided by Musicians For Peace and other local musical groups.
Following Jesus Christ requires radicalism with the relinquishment of material goods, with oneself and his affectivity; it requires the friar to leave the material and affective securities, to put his faith only in Christ. In this current situation of ‘faith crisis’ amongst the young friars of the Order the urgent challenge is to remain strong and vigilant against the tyranny of relativism.
And to rediscover every day the fidelity of ones own life on five fundamental pillars: common prayer (Eucharist and Word of God); personal prayer; commitment and responsibility in fraternity; attention to the poor; ongoing formation and spiritual support. After the talk the friars divided themselves in twelve linguistic groups to reflect and to respond to the invitation of the General Minister.
In the afternoon each group provided feedback and time was set aside for fraternal discussion with the General Minister. At 6.30 pm the votive Mass of St Joseph was celebrated. The General Vicar, br. Francesco Bravi presided. After supper the participants then enjoyed a concert with the local community including music provided by Musicians For Peace and other local musical groups.