More than 70 participants gathered virtually on July 13 for the first session of the Third Pan-American Meeting of the Capuchins (EPAN). The meeting focused on reflection on the renewal of the charism and the connection between contemplation and fraternity, in preparation for the major gathering in Mexico City in 2027.
On Monday, July 13, the first official session of the third Pan-American Meeting of the Capuchins was held online. Although the preparatory process had already officially begun on May 11, this event marked the first session dedicated exclusively to those invited to the on-location meeting, which is to be held in May 2027 in Mexico (Provincial Ministers, Custodes, and Delegates).
The Capuchin Poor Clares were also invited to the meeting, an opportunity that allowed for a further strengthening of the strong bonds of fraternity that unite the Capuchin Franciscan family. With about seventy participants actively engaged throughout most of the meeting, the event was marked by a strong spirit of dialogue, and a desire to renew the Capuchin charism.
The time of reflection and meditation was led by Br. Edvin Díaz, a member of the Custody of Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador. His talk focused on the theme of returning to the sources of our charism, reminding those present that true renewal does not consist of a nostalgic return to the past, but in rediscovering that source where the Holy Spirit makes all things new.
Among the key concepts of his presentation, Brother Edvin emphasized that Capuchin identity arises from a daily encounter with Christ and not simply from the preservation of traditions. Every authentic reform, he added, begins when the heart falls in love with Christ once again and finds the courage to live the Gospel in a radical way.
The reflection also highlighted the inseparable link between contemplation and fraternity: contemplation that does not lead to fraternity remains incomplete, while fraternity that is not nourished by contemplation is destined to fade away. Reflecting on the experience of the first Capuchins, Friar Edvin recalled that they did not seek simply to be “different,” but desired to be more faithful to the Gospel; it was precisely this profound fidelity that transformed the history of the Order. He then concluded by inviting everyone to renew the gift they have received with enthusiasm, since today’s challenge is not to invent a new charism, but to live with passion and authenticity what the Spirit has already entrusted to the Order.
The preparatory process for the third meeting will continue with an upcoming online meeting, scheduled for August 10thand open only to invited members. The major on-location gathering, on the other hand, is scheduled for May 2027 in Mexico City. On that occasion, friars from across the Americas will come together to strengthen their communion, discern new missionary challenges, and celebrate together the richness of the Capuchin charism in the Americas.