OFS, National Elective Chapter in New Zealand

The National Elective Chapter of the OFS of New Zealand took place September 2-8, 2025, at the “St. Francis Retreat Center” in Auckland.

The capitulars were very pleased to receive the Minister General Tibor Kauser, OFS, who presided over the Chapter, and the presence of Br. Stefan Acatrinei, OFMConv, representing the Conference of General Spiritual Assistants (CAS), who testified at the Chapter.

During the elective session, the capitulars elected the new OFS National Council: Shirley McGinley is the National Minister and Paul Hitchfield is the International Councillor.

 The national fraternity of the OFS in New Zealand is a canonically erected fraternity; despite its challenges, it continues to be a very active fraternity and involved in the affairs of the Church and society, testifying to the Franciscan charism with zeal, enthusiasm, determination and dedication.