The International Board of Directors (IBD) of Franciscans International (FI) met in Assisi, Italy from May 11-14, 2023. After significant deliberations, prayer and discernment, on May 13, the IBD appointed Blair Matheson, TSSF (Third Order of St Francis), to be the new Executive Director of FI. He will replace Br. Markus Heinze, OFM on January 1, 2024.
Blair is an Anglican Third Order Franciscan from New Zealand. He and Br. Markus will work together during the transition period from now until the end of the current calendar year.
The Board recognizes the tremendous contributions by Br. Markus, who, over the past eleven years, guided FI through significant changes toward both organizational and financial stability. The members of the IBD look forward to working with Blair and the dedicated staff of FI as we continue to respond to the cries of the poor and of creation, defending human rights and raising these concerns at the United Nations and to the international community.
In the picture, from left to right: Markus Heinze, OFM; Blair Matheson, TSSF; Michael Perry, OFM; Carlos Trovarelli, OFM Conv. (liaison from the Conference of the Franciscan Family); Charity Nkandu, SFMA; Carolyn Townes, OFS; James Donegan, OFM Cap.; José Eduardo Jazo, TOR; and Joseph Blay, OFM Conv.