Provincial Chapter 1923 — Acts

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Acts and Decrees of the 23rd Provincial Chapter, held St Josephs Retreat, Highgate, London. 7/3/24/2 The 23rd Provincial Chapter of the Province of St. Joseph was begun on Sunday 24th June 1923: the day eventually fixed by V. Rev. Fr. Malachy, Provincial and approved by the Most Rev. Fr. General. Owing to the grave illness of Fr. General, the V. Rev. Fr. Leo, Procurator General, was delegated to preside. The Venerable Brethren assembled in the Chapter Room, on that morning at 9.30, with the usual ceremonies and prayers. The names of the Capitulars having been called, each answered to his name. The V. Rev. Fr. President enquired as to its valid and lawful institution, and all having answered in the affirmative, he declared the Chapter canonically assembled. The V. Rev. Fr. Provincial was appointed to read the letter of Most Rev. Fr. General delegating V. Rev. Fr. Leo to act as President. Fr. Provincial referred in touching terms to the illness of Fr. General expressing on the part of the Capitulars, and the entire Province, the fervent wish that his Paternity would soon be restored to perfect health, and likewise tendering warm welcome to his representative. V. Rev. Fr. Leo in reply stated how anxious Most Rev Fr. General was to be present with the Capitulars at this Chapter, but since on account of his health, that was impossible, he decided to send one who thoroughly understands the circumstances of our Province and who is deeply interested in our welfare. Fr. President keenly realised the grave responsibility of this task but with the kind cooperation of the Capitulars, he felt confident that this Chapter would be as efficient and fruitful as any one in the past. The Holy Fathers blessing would contribute in no small way to that end. V. R. v. Fr. President, before leaving Rome had a private audience with His Holiness, who lovingly sent his Paternal Blessing to all the Brethren, but in a more especial manner to the Capitular Fathers. Fr. Leo in conclusion placed this very important work under the especial protection of St. Joseph, Patron of the Province and also of this Retreat. The Rev. Fr. Augustine was appointed by ballot "Custos" who immediately took the oath "de secreto servando" The Rev. Fr. Richard was elected Secretary of the Chapter. The certificates of the due celebration of Masses, the keeping of the Archives, the inventories status animarum, and pagellas were then handed in. The financial statements were read, and the following Fathers were appointed to examine and report:- Financial statements FFs. Alban, John & Cyprian. Masses and Pagellas FFs. george and Herman. Status animarum FFs. Brnard & Gerald. Archives and inventories FFs. Sebastian and Hyacinth. The subjects for the consideration of the Chapter were submitted and arranged. 2nd Session 4 p.m. Sunday. The Fathers during this Session were engaged in discussing:- 1. The question of accepting a Mission at Nice.2. A letter from Fr. Egidius with reference to the causes of FFs. Dom…