Amid remembrance, fraternity, and a pilgrimage to the Divina Pastora: the Capuchins of Brazil gather to rekindle the missionary zeal ahead of the Order’s upcoming plenary council.
From August 17 to 21, 2026, the Santíssima Trindade retreat house in Aracaju, in the state of Sergipe, hosted the second meeting of the National Secretariat for Evangelization, Animation, and Missionary Cooperation (SEACOM) of the Capuchin Conference of Brazil (CCB). This fraternal gathering was attended by 23 friars representing all ten provinces and two custodies in the country, along with the executive secretary of the CCB and the Order’s Secretary General for Evangelization and Missions. The meeting was enriched by occasions of remote fellowship, messages of solidarity, and letters of affection from the superiors of the conference and the General Curia.
Recalling the Past and Looking to the Future
The first few days were devoted to dialogue and an evaluation of the journey thus far. Beginning with a look back at the first historic gathering and analyzing the statutes approved in May 2026, the friars reflected on the identity and fundamental role of the local secretariats. The formation sessions helped the participants reexamine the missionary dynamic in light of our Constitutions, Capuchin Franciscan spirituality, and the Manual of the Capuchin Apostolate for the Americas. Particular emphasis was placed on preparations for the upcoming Ninth Plenary Council of the Order (PCO IX), scheduled to take place in Rome in October 2026.
Capuchin Missions Day and Solidarity
Ample attention was given to the Capuchin Missions Day, which the Brazilian Conference celebrates every year on the first Sunday in July. By sharing best practices adopted in the various regions, the importance of encouraging all fraternities to live this event with enthusiasm and active participation was emphasized.
As a testament to the universal dimension of our charism, a proposal was made to be sent to the CCB Presidency that a portion of the nation-wide collection be allocated to the Order’s International Solidarity fund. The event was also placed within the context of the Franciscan Centenaries (the 800th anniversary of the death of St. Francis and the preparation for the 500th anniversary of the Capuchin Reform).
On Journey with the Divina Pastora (Divine Shepherdess)
A cumulative spiritual event in terms of fraternal fellowship occurred on Thursday, August 20th: a pilgrimage to the State Shrine of Nossa Senhora Divina Pastora, patroness of the state of Sergipe. This devotion is historically linked to the Italian Capuchins who arrived in this region in 1782.
The friars walked through the city streets in a simple, down-to-earth manner and were warmly welcomed by the local people. During the solemn Eucharistic celebration at the shrine, the secretariats of the Brazilian circumscriptions were consecrated to the Divina Pastora, a figure who embodies the key values of our charism: fraternity, minority, contemplation in action, and pastoral collaboration. The day then concluded joyfully at the Capuchin friary in Aracaju, where we shared a meal with the local fraternity and the postulants.
Starting Over with Renewed Enthusiasm
During the closing sessions, conducted using the “Conversation in the Spirit” method, the assembly defined the priorities for action for the next two years and proceeded to renew the national coordinating team that will lead SEACOM in the coming years.
The meeting concluded with a deep sense of gratitude to the Lord for the days of grace and fellowship experienced, and with the hope that the work accomplished will continue to fervently fan the missionary flame in the heart of every friar.