The Order revitalizes its presence in Cuba

On May 15^thlast, three friars arrived in Havana, Cuba, to form a new international fraternity in Holy Cross parish. As well as offering support to the Cuban members of the Custody of St. Mary of Hope (3 Solemnly Professed friars and 6 in Initial Formation), Brs. Manuel Pineda (from Guatemala), Francisco Gearóid Ó Conaire (from Ireland), and Jesús Aguirre Garza (from Mexico) will explore possible future presences and ministries. Their criteria will be the needs of the local church, discerned in line with our Franciscan charism, guided by the Order’s document, ‘Ite Nuntiate’, and with an emphasis on Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation (JPIC). Other friars have expressed interest in being part of this initiative. In dialogue with the Custos, Br. José Santos Pérez ofm, friars are encouraged to come, visit, and discern for three months before making a final decision. The fraternity will present proposals regarding present and future international initiatives in Cuba to the Custos and the Minister General in July 2019. In the meantime, as well as serving in a parish, they will meet with many people and groups around the country, as well as experiencing Cuban realities first-hand. For further information, please contact Br. Luis Gallardo OFM, General Secretary for Missions at lgallardo@ofm.org or Ignacio Ceja OFM (General Definitor) at iceja@ofm.org All are welcome!