HOLY TRINITY PROVINCE, KARNATAKA INAUGURATES X PROVINCIAL CHAPTER WITH SPIRIT-FILLED CEREMONY
INNAUGURATION:
Shanti Sadhana, FISI – Kengeri, Bengaluru | 21 April 2025
The Holy Trinity Province officially inaugurated its X Provincial Chapter at Shanti Sadhana, FISI, Kengeri, Bengaluru, on Monday, 21st April 2025. Themed “Rooted in Faith, Journeying in Hope, Driven by Love – Anchoring into Capuchin Franciscan Charism”, the Chapter began with a powerful symbolic and spiritual opening, setting the tone for days of reflection, renewal, and fraternal discernment.

Procession and Eucharist: A Spirit-Led Beginning
At 3:00 PM, friars gathered at the entrance of Shanti Sadhana for a solemn procession to the chapel, led by Rev. Fr. Lawrence Soosainathan, President of the Chapter and General Councillor for CCMSI. Carrying the Easter Candle, he was accompanied by brothers bearing candles—signs of unity and the light of Christ. A prayer service, prepared and animated by the Liturgical Committee, was held in the chapel, creating a reflective and reverent atmosphere. This was followed by the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, presided over by Fr. Lawrence Soosainathan. In his homily, he exhorted the gathering to allow themselves to be led by the Holy Spirit, drawing parallels with the post-Resurrection disciples. “Just as the early disciples were animated by the Spirit, so too must we be inspired in these days of the Chapter,” he said, underlining the spiritual foundation of the gathering.

Inaugural Session: Welcome, Witness, and Unity
At 6:00 PM, the inaugural session commenced with a welcome address by Chapter Secretary Br. Maxim D’Silva, followed by a brief invocation prayer for the success and grace of the Chapter. A lighting of the lamp ceremony brought symbolic brightness and unity to the hall, with the President, Provincial Minister, Vicar Provincial, and Councillors taking part. The Provincial Minister formally welcomed the President, Rev. Fr. Lawrence Soosainathan, acknowledging his presence and leadership. Observers from the Provinces of Italy, New York, Turkey, and the Custody of Uganda were warmly received, along with Delegate Superiors from Mizoram-Tripura, Nagaland-Manipur, and Sri Lanka. The Provincial Councillors and Capitulars were introduced and welcomed. Br. Joywin Dias, Provincial Secretary, conducted the official roll call, followed by a moment of prayerful remembrance for deceased friars of the triennium. A prayer was offered for the reposed soul of Pope Francis acknowledging his selfless service to the church. The General Minister’s permission to convoke the Chapter was read aloud, along with the Letter of Convocation issued by the Provincial Minister.

Provincial and Presidential Addresses: A Call to Commitment In his welcome address, the Provincial Minister urged all members to enter the Chapter with hearts open to the Spirit and minds focused on mission. He emphasized the importance of communal discernment, renewal of commitment, and faithfulness to the Capuchin Franciscan way. In a stirring keynote, Fr. Lawrence Soosainathan described the Holy Trinity Province as “rich not just in numbers but in commitment and witness.” He expressed deep gratitude for the gift of the province and reminded the friars of their shared responsibility. “This Chapter is a sacred moment—a time to reflect on community scope, address common concerns, and pursue collective goals,” he said.

Formal Opening and commencement of The Chapter Following the formalities, Fr. Lawrence Soosainathan solemnly declared the X Provincial Chapter open. In accordance with the Statutes of the Province, the selection of scrutineers was carried out. Members of various Chapter committees were proposed and approved, ensuring smooth facilitation of sessions in the days ahead. The Chapter agenda and timetable were then presented and approved unanimously, allowing the body to begin its journey of reflection and discernment in a spirit of transparency and collaboration. 

Looking Ahead
As the Chapter days progress, the friars are called to journey together with openness, truth, and fraternity. Guided by the Spirit and rooted in their Franciscan identity, they now turn toward the mission of renewal—faithful to the Gospel, committed to the poor, and united in fraternity. Stay tuned for daily updates and reflections from the Chapter Hall.