Spiritual retreat "The Testament of Francis"

From the 16th  to 25th  September 2024, the friars of the German Franciscan Province of St. Elizabeth made their spiritual retreat in Assisi and its surroundings, on the theme: "The Testament of St. Francis". Under the guidance of Br. Johannes Baptist Freyer, they visited places related to the Testament and present in the Franciscan Sources, which are not usually part of the itinerary of groups of pilgrims to Assisi. It was an intense examination of the origins, but also of the present and future of our fraternity.  

The main questions were: "For St. Francis, what was important to preserve?", but also: "For us, what is important to preserve today?" 

Br. Albert Schmucki, Definitor General, joined the group for a day to report on the current situation of the Order, especially with regard to the Provinces in Europe. 

The themes and places of the individual stages were Penance and Mercy (Test 1-3) in San Rufino d'Arce and San Damiano. Living the Gospel with brothers and sisters (Test 14-15) at the SS. Pietà di Farnetto in Colombella. Simplicity of life and poverty (Test 16-17, 24) in Montecasale. The greeting of peace (Test 23) in Santa Maria della Vittoria, Gubbio. Rule and obedience (Test 27-28, 34-39) in Monteluco. My testament – What is important to me to pass on to Rocca Sant'Angelo. Prayer and the Divine Office (Test 18-19, 30) at the Speco di Narni. Work and alms (Test 20-22) in Stroncone. Faith in the Church (Test 4-13, 25-26) at San Giacomo de Muro Rupto. 

The historical and spiritual work with the sources of the Order was a moment of enrichment and fraternity for all. Even the oldest member of the group, Br. Heinz-Meinolf Stamm (85), who taught for many years as a professor of canon law in Rome, was amazed by the new perspectives on the Order and fraternity that has finally presented themselves. 

In the photos:
Group photo with Fabiana and Luciano of the OFS of Stroncone.
Eucharistic celebration in the little church of San Giacomo de Muro Rupto in Assisi.

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