From: Ed
Re.: General Chapter

Dear Brothers,

We are more than half way through the General Chapter.  I thought I would give you a bit of an update.  First some of the social events.  A week ago Sunday, the Chapter made an excursion to the town of Ferrara which is not far from Bologna.  Savanarola was born there and entered the Order in the local convent where we had Mass.  After touring the ancient castle, with a genuine
mote filled with water, draw bridges, etc., we went to the Abbey of Pomposa which was founded in the 7th century.  This past Sunday, the Chapter delegates went to Ravenna to see the beautiful mosaics of the 4th century.  Some of the brethren went to Venice.

The work of the Chapter is escalating with most of the commission work being done.  In fact, today our commission (De Missione) made its final presentation to the plenary session.  There was a great deal of debate on our text, particularly the section entitled: ãMen and Women in Mission Together.ä I felt the discussion was excellent and respectful.  I believe the text we approved is quite a good text.  There are two other main sections of the text: one on the Order in Asia and the other on the intellectual mission of the Order.  Since other Chapters (Caleruega and Mexico) dealt extensively with the Order in countries of the former Soviet Union and  also in Africa, we have concentrated on Asia.  Our president of the commission is the Phillipine Provincial who is excellent.

Tomorrow we begin debate on economics which should be very interesting. From there we go into formation and community life, Constitutions, etc.  Tonight all the English language provincials will be meeting to discuss concerns common to us.  One of the main concerns has to do with our liturgical books.

There is an extremely positive spirit among the provincials.  We laugh a lot and work hard. I have adapted to the European custom of a siesta after the noon meal.  We return to work from 3:30 to 7:00, followed by Vespers and then a light supper.  Afterward, a few of us go around the corner for gelato, and then drink a beer or two until 11:00 when we begin to head off to bed.  The socials are integral to our getting to know one another.  Of course, as one would expect, Timothy is doing an excellent job.

Enough for now!  I will write again before the Chapter ends.  Know that you are remembered in prayer daily.  God bless,

Ed
 

© 1998 Order of Preachers  General Chapter, 1998  Internet site by Scott Steinkerchner OP  email: steinkerchner@op.org