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Franciscan Friars of the Province of Our Lady of Guadalupe Elect Provincial Minister, Vicar, and Provincial Council
Author: Office of Justice,
Peace and Integrity of Creation
The Franciscan Friars of the Province of Our Lady of Guadalupe joyfully share news from St. Louis, where the friars gathered this week for a historic Chapter of Elections marked by prayer, fraternity, discernment, and hope.
As partners in Franciscan life and mission, we are grateful to share this moment with the many friends, collaborators, and communities who continue to accompany the province with prayer and support. During the Chapter from July 12-17, 2026, the first since the 2023 unification of five U.S. Franciscan provinces, more than 300 friars from across the country elected a new Provincial Administration, reflected on the life of the province, and looked together toward the future of Franciscan presence and service.
Welcoming New Provincial Leadership
“Brothers, we have a provincial: Michael Perry,” announced Br. Larry Ford, OFM, Chapter Secretary, on Wednesday. After a brief pause, cheers swept through the room. Applause followed, and the friars rose together in a standing ovation, giving thanks for the brother called to serve the province in this new moment.
Br. Michael Perry, OFM, was the first elected Provincial Minister of the Province of Our Lady of Guadalupe, receiving an absolute majority of capitular votes. Visitator General and President of the Chapter Br. Teofil Czarniak, OFM, presented the provincial seal to Br. Michael, who received it with quiet reverence.
Br. Michael, director of the Laudato Si’ Center for Integral Ecology at Siena University in Loudonville, New York, served the Order of Friars Minor as Minister General, the 120th successor of St. Francis of Assisi, from 2013 to 2021. He also previously served as Provincial Councilor and Provincial Minister for the legacy Sacred Heart Province.
After making an oath of fidelity to the Catholic Church and promising to ensure the observance of the Rule and Constitutions throughout the province, Br. Michael spoke with humility and gratitude. “I don’t deserve to be standing here,” he said. “Pray for me, please, and thank you for your trust and your love.”
