The first meeting of the Enlarged General Definitory took place from 17 to 21 March this year. This moment of dialogue and sharing saw the participation of the friars of the General Council and the lay people involved in the mission of the Order. The meeting represented a precious occasion to reflect on future challenges and outline operational strategies for the next six years.

Leadership and lines of action for the future

The meeting opened with an in-depth study of the theme of leadership, paying particular attention to the three fundamental dimensions of the role of the leader: shepherd, animator and administrator. This reflection laid the foundations for an increasingly aware and structured management of the Order, in line with the charisma and mission inspired by St. John of God.

Subsequently, the focus shifted to the implementation of the guidelines of the 70th General Chapter, with an in-depth analysis of the actions to be taken to consolidate the Order's identity and strengthen its international presence.

Committees and operational strategies

A central part of the meeting was dedicated to the presentation of the Commissions, which are fundamental for the coordination and management of the different areas of intervention. The people in charge illustrated the structure, composition and future strategies of their respective areas:

• Bioethics – Jürgen Wallner (Austrian Province) in collaboration with Brother Joaquim Erra
• Governance – Brother Joaquim Erra in collaboration with Monica Cicconi
• Finance – Ansgar Dieckhoff (Bavarian Province) in collaboration with Brother Joaquim Erra
• Missions and International Cooperation – Katia Morello (General Curia) in collaboration with Brother John Jung and Brother Etienne Sene
• Health Care Ministry and Social Ministry – Fr. Rubén D. Gonzalez (Latin American Province) in collaboration with Susana Queiroga (Portuguese Province)
• Emerging Realities – Paul Bott (Western Europe Province) in collaboration with Brother David Linch
• Transmission of the Charism – Immaculada Roig (Spanish Province) in collaboration with Brother Joaquim Erra
• Vulnerable/Safe Space and Care of the Planet – Brother Saji Mullankuzhy

A central aspect that emerged from the direct participation of the laity was the importance of collaboration between them and the friars in sharing the charism. The charism of hospitality is a mission that is realised through the contribution of all those who share its values. The active presence of lay people in the different realities of the Order allows us to broaden the horizons of hospitality and assistance, guaranteeing continuity and renewal in the mission of service to the most vulnerable.

The challenges of the Regions and the synodal journey

Afterwards, the General Councillors provided an overview of their respective regions of competence, highlighting the main characteristics and future challenges:

• Africa – Brother Etienne Sene
• America – Brothers David Lynch and Rubén D. Gonzalez
• Asia Pacific – Brother John Jung
• Europe – Brothers Joaquim Erra and Saji Mullankuzhy

The work strongly emphasised the need to strengthen our common identity and to promote a transmission of our charisma that is increasingly rooted in the values of the Order.

A shared commitment to serving the most vulnerable

The week of meetings was a crucial moment for consolidating the vision of the Order and orienting its future actions, with particular attention to the mission of welcoming and caring for the most fragile.

As the Father General, Brother Pascal Ahodegnon, has repeatedly emphasised, the Enlarged Definitory is a synodal process in continuous evolution, animated by the desire to walk together, share responsibilities and respond faithfully to the challenges of our time. Following the example of Saint John of God, the Order renews its commitment to be a point of reference for the most vulnerable, with passion, dedication and a spirit of service.