“A time of profound reflection”: Official on Third Ordinary, Elective Provincial Chapter of OFM Capuchins in Angola

Reflecting on the theme of the gathering, the Angolan OFM member said, “We want our Capuchin spirituality to be visible — both in our way of praying and in community life and in the management of our resources, always with humility, clarity, and transparency.” 

He continued, “We are seeking to build firm foundations for our identity as an autonomous province.”

Fr. de Moraes noted that the Chapter’s main objective is to “elect the new provincial government — the Provincial Minister and Council — and to clearly define a concrete agenda for the next three years.”

This agenda, he said, “will serve as a guide for the pastoral, fraternal, and economic actions of the government that emerges. It is an exercise in co-responsibility and fraternal communion.”

Fr. de Moraes expressed the expectation that the Friars will either confirm their confidence in the current leadership or decide in favor of renewal. 

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“We want a Chapter marked by prayer, truth, listening, and courage to embrace new vocations and challenges. This moment inspires a renewal of hope and of the authentic spirit of fraternity,” he said.

The Province of Angola has about 160 Friars, of whom 88 have made their perpetual professions and are eligible to vote or be elected. 

OFM pastoral presence extends across six diocesan jurisdictions — Uije, Luanda, Ndalatando, Mbanza-Congo, Huambo, and Ondjiva — and they maintain between 22 and 23 fraternities.

“The main pastoral challenge is to live authenticity in the Franciscan charism: wearing the habit and, above all, embodying it in concrete life — praying, serving, and standing alongside the excluded,” Fr. de Moraes said.

 He cited the example of Mbanza-Congo, where the Friars maintain a shelter for children accused of witchcraft, “a concrete gesture of mercy and compassion in a context of pain and superstition.” 

Fr. de Moraes noted that “another challenge is to recognize today’s poor — not only those materially deprived, but also the spiritually impoverished — whom the Capuchins must encounter and accompany.”

He rejoiced at the steady growth in vocations, affirming that “the significant presence of Friars with temporary vows signals a promising future. The novitiate also welcomes candidates from neighboring countries, reinforcing the continental dimension of the Capuchin mission.” 

Fr. de Moraes underscored the importance of solid formation, both spiritually and humanly, to ensure authentic vocations faithful to the charism.

The closing celebration is scheduled for August 28, with a solemn Mass on August 31 at the Church of Our Lady of Fatima, where the new Provincial Minister and his Council will be officially presented.

João Vissesse is an Angolan Journalist with a passion and rich experience in Catholic Church Communication and Media Apostolate.