Election of the New Superior General and His Council

In Częstochowa, Poland, where the 2024 Chapter is being held, the capitular brothers follow a meticulous process outlined in the "Regulations of the 70th General Chapter," carried out with prayerful devotion.

Discernment: a time for reflection and prayer

The process begins with the election of the President of the election session, Fr. Donatus Forkan, and continues with a period of discernment. This time invites each capitular to meditate on the importance of the choice before them and to engage in dialogue with their peers. On October 31, the capitulants were joined by Sister Renata, a Polish nun from the Sacred Heart of Jesus congregation, who led this communal and personal period of reflection.

The electoral process

Once the full day of discernment is completed, the President of the Chapter initiates the election process on the appointed day. He oversees the election with the support of two scrutineers, ensuring transparency and a serene atmosphere. After the former Superior General has officially renounced his office, each elector writes the name of the brother he nominates, places the ballot in the urn, and places his hand on the Gospel as a sign of confirmation of the oath pronounced by one of the scrutineers.

"We take Jesus Christ as our witness, He who will judge us, that we elect as Superior General and General Councillors those who are the most worthy and best suited for these offices. May God and His holy Gospels, upon which each of us places our hand, aid us in remaining faithful to this oath."

You can find photos of the day here.

The election and the thanksgiving ceremony

Once the ballots are collected, they are carefully verified. The election is validated when a candidate receives an absolute majority of the votes. If the elected brother accepts the office, he receives confirmation from the President with these words: “Brother N.N., receive the seal of the Hospitaller Order of Saint John of God. (…) I confirm you as Superior General of the whole Order.”

After the confirmation of the election, all capitulars proceed to the chapel for a thanksgiving service, singing the Te Deum or a similar hymn of gratitude.

Following the election of the Superior General, the election of the General Councillors (to be held on November 4) follows a similar process. These brothers, selected for their skills and dedication, will work alongside the Superior General to guide the Order in its mission of hospitality over the next six years.