Chapter of the Custody of Mary, the Mother of God, India

The Brothers of the Custody of Mary, the Mother of God, dependent on the Province of St. Thomas the Apostle, India, celebrated their Custodial Chapter from May 21 to 25, 2024, in Goa, India. Forty-seven Chapter members, along with the Provincial Definitory, gathered as one brotherhood to review, reflect, and refocus on the Franciscan elements of life and mission as friars. They also elected new leadership to guide the Custody towards a hope-filled future.

The Custodial Chapter was attended by both young and old friars, from the senior-most, Br. Richard D’Silva, aged 91, to the youngest, Br. Bhushan Minj, aged 29, manifesting the Custody’s rich blend of seasoned wisdom and youthful energy.

Under the theme “Bearing the Marks of the Crucified Christ,” the Custodial Chapter resonated with the 800th anniversary of the gift of the Stigmata to St. Francis of Assisi. The Chapter honoured this centenary and drew inspiration from this significant encounter and experience of St. Francis to deepen the spirit of prayer and devotion within the Custody. The mandate, passed by the Chapter emphasized the revitalization of their life and mission, ensuring that they adhere to the spirit of St. Francis in a way that remains relevant and meaningful today.

Br. Xavier Durairaj, the Minister Provincial, conducted the Visitation of the Custody, meeting with the brothers and fraternities. He presented a realistic report that highlighted the vitality within the Custody and emphasized the need to strengthen their communal life. He proposed various ways and means to invigorate the Custody’s mission. Alongside reports from secretariats, commissions, and fraternities, the brothers were able to review their activities and engage in constructive and positive discussions, setting a path forward for growth and development.

Goa, once home to two Portuguese OFM Provinces (1500-1835), holds a special place in the hearts of Franciscans in India. Hosting the Custodial Chapter in this historic city evokes the missionary zeal of past friars, serving as an inspiration for the friars of today. The new leadership elected consisting of Br. Santosh Ekka as Custos and Brs. Jose Pallimattom, Arvind Kerketta, Salvador D’ Souza and Anil Xalxo has promised to lead the Custody strengthening and consolidating its existing presences and to respond to new avenues of missions both in India and abroad. 

Speaking to the Brothers of the Custody, Br. Santosh Ekka stressed the aspect of service as the mark of leadership and has appealed to the brothers for their fraternal collaboration in leading the Dependent Custody of Mary the Mother of God towards an autonomous entity in the near future.