The capitulants made the journey to the Ad Gentes Centre in
Nemi, just outside Rome, on Saturday afternoon. On Sunday they were officially welcomed by the Superior General and they spent time getting to know each other. Capitulants represent the 31countries where the Marists are present; they are aged between 42 and 82 and they minister in a variety of ministries. There are 36 capitulants, 4 observers, 2 facilitators and 9 auxiliary staff.
Monday was a day of prayer and reflection focusing on the theme “With Mary at Pentecost”. Fr John Larsen presented a retreat conference to the capitulants and posed personal and communal questions. Some of the themes were: “Mary and the Spirit of Compassion”, “Mary and the mission of the Holy Spirit” and “Mary and the Spirit of Unity in the community”.
During the afternoon session guided by Ms Frances Heery, time was given to the capitulants to share hopes, desires, fears and concerns, while Br Joe McKee reminded the assembly of spects of synodality and deep listening, and of the importance of moving from being merely a delegate, and becoming also a capitulant.
In the evening the solemn Mass of the Holy Spirit was presided over by Fr John Larsen, assisted by Fr John Hannan and Fr John Harhager. The liturgy of the Eucharist included an opening liturgy for the General Chapter where each candidate was called individually by name and presented a candle. The Superior General formally constituted the Chapter. There were universal prayers in seven different languages and each Major Superior presented a symbol of his Unit with a brief
commentary.
