Between April 22 and 25, members of the Missionary Society of St. Paul (MSSP) from Peru and Cuba convened to celebrate the Regional Chapter at the Society’s community house in Arequipa, Peru. The first two days were dedicated to gatherings of the members themselves, after which they were joined by Bishop Giovanni Cefai MSSP from the prelature of Huancane, along with dedicated lay collaborators involved in the Society’s missionary work in Peru.
The Chapter was facilitated by Fr. Frankie Cini MSSP, who was accompanied by the Superior General, Fr. Martin Galea, for the celebration of this important event. Fr. Martin had spent several weeks visiting Peru, Cuba, and Huancane, meeting individually with all MSSP members in these countries as part of his canonical visitation of the region. According to the Constitutions of the Missionary Society of St. Paul, the Superior General is expected to visit and meet all members personally. For Fr. Martin Galea, who was appointed Superior General in 2024, this marked his first canonical visitation.
During the four days of meetings, a variety of topics were discussed, including the role of the laity in missionary work, the life of fraternity among MSSP brothers in communion, financial matters and providence, pastoral work in the parishes, and support provided to the poor. Following these sessions, the Superior General, Fr. Martin Galea, and Fr. Frankie Cini met again with the newly elected Regional Council to address some of the realities and challenges of the region.