Leadership Transition Marks a New Chapter for Tertiary Sisters

On 27–28 October 2025, the Tertiary Sisters of St. Francis marked the official transition between the outgoing and incoming General Leadership Teams. The two-day handover ceremony was a time of prayer, reflection, gratitude, and symbolic exchange.

The gathering began with a prayer service in which the sisters asked God to fill their hearts “with gratitude for all that has been, and with hope and courage for all that lies ahead.” The Superior General expressed deep thanks to God for His enduring faithfulness and offered heartfelt appreciation to the outgoing team for their generosity, commitment, and spirit of collaboration. She warmly welcomed the new team, commending their courage in accepting the responsibility of leadership, and prayed that they would be guided by wisdom, grace, and strength.

Symbols of Mission and Legacy

At the heart of the ceremony was a set of symbolic items representing the spiritual heritage and guiding values of the Congregation. Each item was introduced with its meaning:

• Candle: The light of the Risen Lord.
• San Damiano Crucifix: Christ’s love, self-giving, and perfect obedience.
• Bible: Foundation of the Franciscan life and mission.
• Constitutions: Expression of TSSF identity and principles.
• Peace Plant: A sign of the peace the world so urgently needs.
• Bundle of Broom: A symbol of unity; a reminder that “unity is strength.”
• Statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary: Maternal care and protection.
• Images of St Francis and Maria Hueber: Spiritual roots and founding vision.

Reflections on Service

In a dedicated session, the outgoing General Councilors, Secretary General, and Congregational Bursar each offered an account of their term—highlighting key responsibilities, accomplishments, challenges, and recommendations for the future. Their reflections were met with appreciation and praise from those gathered, who acknowledged the dedication and service of the outgoing team.

A Symbolic Exchange

The handover itself was accompanied by quiet Taizé-style music. In a spirit of fraternity and continuity, each member of the outgoing leadership team handed one of the symbolic items to their successor. Upon receiving the items, the new team declared together:

“With God’s help and the prayers of our sisters, we accept this mission in faith and trust.”

In turn, the incoming team presented their predecessors with small tokens of gratitude and lit candles—encouraging them to continue being a light in the communities they serve.

A Eucharistic Conclusion

The ceremony concluded with a Eucharistic celebration in thanksgiving for the leadership and service of the past team, and in prayer for the grace and guidance of the Holy Spirit for those newly entrusted with leadership.

In his homily, Fr Kilain Ngitir, OFMCap, offered words of blessing and encouragement. To the outgoing team, he said:

“You have served with generosity, prayer, and self-sacrifice. You have walked the path of St Francis in humility, in love for the poor Christ, and in service to the sisters entrusted to you.”

To the new team, he added:

“You have been called not by chance but by divine appointment. The Spirit who has guided this Congregation will now guide you. Lead with open hands and hearts, always listening first to the voice of the Lord.”