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The days from 18 to 23 July 2025 brought continued reflection, reporting, and discernment for the delegates at the 23rd Ordinary General Chapter of the Tertiary Sisters of St. Francis.
On 18 July, participants began the day with a reflection on the Gospel passage in which Jesus’ disciples pluck grain on the Sabbath (Matthew 12:1–8). The discussion centred on Christ’s message of compassion—prioritising people over rules. The remainder of the day was devoted to the General Leadership Team’s report on its six-year mandate, followed by open comments and expressions of appreciation.
The following day, 19 July, the Chapter continued with the presentation of the General Bursar’s report, which led into deliberations on other reports from the General Administration.
After several intense working days, 20 July offered a free morning for rest and renewal. Many delegates used the time to visit Franciscan sites in Assisi, bringing with them the intentions of the Chapter and their sisters across the Congregation. Deliberations resumed in the afternoon, continuing the review of the Bursar’s report.
On 21 July, participants reflected on John 17:21–23, in which Jesus prays for unity among his followers. The Gospel served as a reminder of the importance of standing together as a Congregation in mission, strengthened by courage and joy. The morning also included a synthesis of previous discussions. The rest of the day was dedicated to working with themes drawn from the Chapter’s Working Document.
The Chapter reached its halfway point on 22 July, the Feast of St Mary Magdalene. The day opened with a solemn Mass and a Gospel reflection during faith-sharing. The main session focused on in-depth group work around selected themes from the Working Document.
On 23 July, the Bolivian sisters led the morning liturgy with joyful song, setting a vibrant tone for the day. In his homily, the presiding priest drew meaningful links between the life of St Bridget of Sweden and the task of communal discernment during the Chapter. The Capitulars then resumed deliberations on topics from the Working Document, including proposals brought forward by the General Leadership Team.