Over 60 members of the Most Pure Heart of Mary Province, ministering in Canada, the United States, Mexico, El Salvador, Honduras, Perú, and Italy gathered at Mount Carmelite Spiritual Centre in Niagara Falls, Ontario, for their triennial Chapter. The Chapter took place from 15 to 19 June 2026.

The theme of the Chapter was Legacy of Hope. A series of working sessions were facilitated by Dr Matthew Manion of Villanova University. Besides the usual reports by the provincial council, presentations were also made on the history of the province, Laudato Si', the province's strategic plan, and finances. Legislation was worked on during a session on Thursday morning.

The prior general, Desiderio García Martínez, in his opening address to the Chapter, covered a wide range of topics, initially reminding all that a chapter is a period of discernment with success measured by the fraternity of the decisions made. He reflected on the three vows and our need perhaps to rediscover the beauty of the Carmelite charism. He concluded with some challenges, including formation, spirituality, culture, vocations, missions, reorganization, safeguarding underage and vulnerable adults, and the incorporation of the Carmelite family.  

On Wednesday, the Chapter honoured Virginia Parisi, long-time director of the Society of the Little Flower in Canada for her 42 years of service to the society and to the province. On Thursday evening a banquet was held to recognize those members of the province celebrating anniversaries in this three-year period.

During the chapter the following were elected: Fr Carl Markelz, Prior Provincial, Fr Samuel Citero, Vice Provincial, and Frs Jorge Monterroso Mérida, Michael Joyce, Raul Maraví Cabrera and Edgar Lucio Lezama Aparcio members of the Provincial Council.

Our congratulations, prayers and best wishes go to the newly elected Provincial and councillors for their ministry over the next 3 years.

More photos below.

Information courtesy of CITOC (ocarm.org)