West Central Europe

The Brothers gathered together in Ciney, Belgium, following a number of changes in the Province. Brother Joe had been elected to the position of Vicar General and Brother Brendan had been elected Provincial of West- Central Europe. According to the Constitutions it was necessary to convene a Provincial Chapter which, among other things, would elect four Brothers Councillors to work with Brother Brendan

We were fortunate to have with us Brother Emili, Superior General and Brother Joe McKee, Vicar General.

In spite of wintry conditions and travel difficulties, the capitulants gathered together to be welcomed by Brother Brendan. Brother Emili officially passed over the leadership of the Province to Brendan, in the absence of Brother Joe, whose flight from Rome was delayed.

The main priorities of the Chapter were Partnership, Vocations and Leadership. Facilitated by Sister Kathleen, the Brothers and invited lay-people discussed the topics in depth.

Reports were given by representatives of the Provincial Commissions, followed by time to discuss any issues arising.

We pray for the new members of the Council, Brother Maurice Taildemann (Belgium), Brother Michael Schmalzl (Germany), Brother P.J.McGowan (Ireland) and Brother Robert Thunus (Belgium). We pray that they find in Mary of the Visitation and in Champagnat of Montagne the strength and inspiration to take the Brothers towards new horizons.