The Franciscan Friars gathered in Dromantine Centre, Newry in August for their first Provincial Chapter in six years.

Over fifty friars from Ireland and Britian came together to pray, discuss, and discern the path ahead.

Wim Pot OFM (Dutch Province), our Visitator General, presided over the Chapter.

Our Minister General, Massimo Fusarelli, joined us from Rome to announce the Decree of the full union of the British friars with the Province of Ireland.

The English Province was begun in 1224 and the Province of Ireland was established in 1230.

Archbishop Eamon Martin is pictured with Massimo and Aidan when he joined the friars for prayer and a festive meal.

New Provincal and Definitory: Damian Casey, Patrick Lonsdale, Aidan McGrath (Provincial Minister), David Collins (Vicar Provincial), Stephen O'Kane and Antony Jukes.                       

As they move forward, the friars will focus on two keys areas of their vocation and mission: fraternity live in an authentic community open to others, and witness to Christ in simple, creative ways.

The friars returned to their fraternities grateful to God and energised in their Franciscan calling and with hope for the future.

The oldest and the youngest members of the Chapter:  Quentin Jackson is 93 and Denis Aherne is 33.