Capuchins in Lucknow Hold Four-Day Assembly to Review Governance, Formation and Mission

Lucknow, October 11, 2026: The St. Fidelis Province of the Capuchin friars reviewed its governance, community life and apostolic priorities during a four-day Provincial Assembly – Chapter of Mats held from October 6 to 9.

The assembly was presided over by Br. Lawrence Soosai Nathan, General Councillor, with Br. John Alwyn Dias, Minister Provincial, and the Provincial Councillors participating in the proceedings.

Held under the theme, “Let us begin: to revisit, to renew, to relive, to rekindle, and to recommit our call, charism, and communion,” the assembly focused on reassessing provincial priorities, strengthening fraternity and renewing commitment to the Capuchin charism.

The opening day examined the significance of the Capuchin vocation in the province. In a session titled “The Gift of Being Capuchin in St. Fidelis Province,” Br. Lawrence Soosai Nathan invited the friars to reflect on their Franciscan identity and its relevance to the Church and society.

Subsequent sessions addressed administrative, financial and pastoral concerns. The discussions covered the management of society trusts, land and property, archival records, institutional documentation and compliance with the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA). Financial deliberations emphasised transparency, accountability and responsible stewardship of provincial resources.

The assembly also examined community life, with particular attention to prayer, fraternity and the Capuchin values of minority, poverty and humility.

Planning for the province’s apostolic mission formed another major component of the proceedings. Discussions focused on vocation promotion and formation, parish ministry, education, social action, and initiatives related to justice, peace and the integrity of creation. The friars also explored ways to strengthen collaboration across ministries and regions.

Structured around presentations, panel discussions, small-group deliberations and plenary sessions, the assembly provided a forum for members to raise concerns, share experiences and identify priorities for the province’s future.

The assembly concluded on October 9 with a call to translate its deliberations into concrete action in the friars’ respective communities and ministries, reaffirming their commitment to the province’s common mission.