OSAFUND at the 188th General Chapter of the Order
It is a privilege to present our social projects to the supreme decision-making body of the Order of Saint Augustine.
- The Historical Event That Defines the Future
The 188th Ordinary General Chapter of the Order of Saint Augustine (OSA) concluded in Rome from September 1 to 18, 2025. This event, held only every six years, represents the Order’s highest decision-making body: a moment of grace and crucial discussion to outline the challenges and future path of the Augustinians worldwide.
The Chapter had a special significance this year. Not only it was an opportunity to review the progress made, but it also led to the election of the new Prior General. (As previously announced), Father Joseph Farrell was elected to lead the Order, taking over from Father Alejandro Moral Antón, to whom the entire Augustinian family extends its gratitude for his service.
- Our Focus: Presenting the Mission of Charity
For the Augustinians Across the World Foundation (OSAFUND), the 188th General Chapter was an extraordinary honor and privilege. We had the opportunity to be present and participate in the Assembly’s work, bearing living testimony to our efforts and the social projects we carry out thanks to the support of our benefactors.
September 4th was a key date for the Foundation to present its activities to the Chapter Fathers from around the world.
Perhaps not everyone knows what a General Chapter is. It’s an event held only every six years, an exclusive and incredibly important occasion for the Order. It’s the highest decision-making body, where crucial decisions for the future are made and where the new Prior General is elected. Therefore, being present and having the opportunity to present the work of the Augustinians Across the World Foundation was a true privilege. We are so grateful: thanks for this incredible opportunity from the bottom of our hearts,!
- The Historical Presence of Pope Leo XIV, Augustinian Brother
Making the 188th Chapter even more memorable was the dual and significant presence of Pope Leo XIV, the first Pontiff from the Order of St. Augustine.
- Opening Mass (September 1): The Holy Father solemnly inaugurated the Chapter by presiding over Holy Mass in the magnificent Basilica of Sant’Agostino in Campo Marzio in Rome. In his homily, he reminded his confreres of the essence of religious life, exhorting them with the words: “May unity be an indispensable goal of your efforts,” emphasizing the importance of experiencing the Assembly in an atmosphere of listening, humility, and unity.
2. Meeting at the Augustinianum (September 15): As if to embrace the entire Order, the Pontiff returned to the Augustinianum to personally greet the Capitular Fathers. During the meeting, he offered valuable reflections on the religious vocation, describing it as “first and foremost an adventure of love with God” and insisting on the importance of initial formation, encouraging his brothers with St. Augustine’s famous phrase: “Love what you want to be.”
- Looking Ahead
The 188th General Chapter has concluded, charting the course for the next six years. For the Augustinians Across the World Foundation, participation was a powerful injection of enthusiasm and a confirmation that our charitable and solidarity work is an integral part of the Order’s global mission. We are ready to face new challenges, in communion with the new Prior General, Father Joseph Farrell, with one heart and soul, for the good of the Church and the world.