Franciscan friars make solemn profession in Jerusalem

Eleven Franciscan friars from various nations have made their solemn profession in Jerusalem, committing to live according to the Rule of Saint Francis through the vows of obedience, poverty, and chastity. The ceremony was led by Father Massimo Fusarelli, Minister General of the Order of Friars Minor, alongside the Custodian of the Holy Land, Father Francesco Ielpo.

The group of new professants includes members from the Custody of the Holy Land, as well as friars from international provinces, including four from Indonesia, one from Africa, and two from Mozambique. During the rite, the friars recited their profession in their native languages and signed official documents.

In his homily, Father Fusarelli encouraged the religious to dedicate their lives to the Gospel and cautioned against centering their own needs and projects over their spiritual mission, stating, ‘My life is the temple of God, which is the world, which is the Church.’

In a separate event, the Secular Franciscan Order held its first meeting at the Sanctuary of Saint Anthony of Gaggiola to mark the beginning of a new fraternal year. The gathering included the admission of a new sister into the Franciscan path, facilitated by Father Paolo and William Cossu.