On Monday 27 December evening the Friars’ parents and relatives gathered at the Porziuncola Retreat House for the annual Christmas meeting. The meeting began with a Mass by the Minister Provincial Fr. Sandro Overend OFM in which he stressed on the true value of Christmas. He also referred to some of the joyful and sorrowful events of the province during this year.  These are  the nomination of Fr. Joe Bonello OFM as Coadjutor Bishop of the Diocese of Juticalpa, Olancho, Honduras and the passing away of some friars, including the most recent one of Fr. John Abela OFM.

Soon after the Mass all parents and relatives gathered in the main refectory of the Retreat House, where food was served. It was a unique annual event during which the parents met together to pray and to exchange Christmas greetings.

pictures: Marcellino Micallef