The General Chapter is the space of discernment and communion where the fraternity gathers to safeguard its fidelity to the founding spirit and to the path it has received. In an atmosphere of prayer, listening, and dialogue, the Chapter represents the whole fraternity and carries the mission of guarding its identity, guiding its growth, and renewing its communal life.

The Minister Custos, as founder of the Franciscan Fraternity of Hope, exercises his service in a stable manner. The General Chapter elects its Assistants and accompanies the Minister Custos in the task of encouraging and guiding the fraternity. Any revision or update of the Constitutions and Statutes is presented to the Chapter for study and discernment, in a spirit of shared responsibility and fraternal communion.

The Chapter is convened every two years, or whenever the Minister Custos considers it necessary for the good of the fraternity. These gatherings allow the fraternity to review the journey taken, discern orientations for fraternal life, and attend to the needs of the mission. Periodic meetings may also be held to address relevant matters and to accompany the development of the fraternity with a spirit of unity and transparency.

In exceptional situations, the Minister Custos may call an extraordinary meeting of the Chapter when the discernment of urgent or particularly significant matters is required.

The Chapter works through thematic commissions—formation, fraternal life, mission, spiritual accompaniment, administration, among others—where topics affecting the fraternity are studied in depth. All brothers and sisters may send suggestions, reflections, and proposals, which are received with attention and respect. The conclusions are presented in assembly for deliberation and possible approval, and the minutes are shared with the whole fraternity as a sign of transparency and communion.

Composition

The General Chapter is composed of the Minister Custos, the Secretary, the Treasurer, one Assistant, and the brothers and sisters of the fraternity.

This composition seeks to reflect the unity of the shared journey, integrating experience, responsibility, and fraternal life into a single body of discernment.

Community | Missions | Spiritual Exercises | General Chapter