General Chapter 2018

On September 06, 2018, the General Chapter of the International Congregation of the Hospital Sisters of the Third Order Regular of St. Francis opened with the theme “Wherever we are, whatever we do” in Springfield/ Illinois.  

This is the first time in the history of the Congregation the General Chapter is held outside Germany. 

The chapter participants and the motherhouse community gathered at the foot of the image of the Pieta in commemoration of the traditional pilgrimage place at Telgte/Germany; the founding place of the Congregation.

Sister Sherrey Murphy, the General Superior officially opened the twentieth General Chapter.  In her opening remarks, Sister Sherrey said:  We have dedicated significant time, energy and prayer to the preparation of this Chapter.  Now we begin the process of listening to reports about life in the Provinces and the entire Congregation, sharing information, discussion, discernment and decision making. 

We desire to conduct this Chapter in a prayerful, respectful atmosphere of discernment.  In reflecting on the qualities of Franciscan discernment, we find humility and minority at the center.

Our Chapter theme, “wherever we are, whatever we do” invites us to a deeper awareness of our call as Franciscan religious women, our charism and mission “to be and to bring Christ’s healing presence”.  I anticipate that in the days to come, together we will explore how we live and witness to these values.

The Chapter body includes 26 Capitulars from the five provinces of the Congregation, Father Michael Plattig, the Spiritual guide, Father Hans-Bernd Köppen and Prof. Dr. Margret Nemann as facilitators, the secretaries and the translators.

Sister Sherrey concluded her opening remark saying; Let us pray with and for one another during this chapter.  We are assured of the prayerful support of the sisters throughout the congregation.