Seek God’s Will Through Prayerful Discernment”: Franciscan Tertiary Sisters Elect New Leadership at 23rd General Chapter

LAHORE, 8 July 2026: The Franciscan Tertiary Sisters of Lahore (FTL) elected their new General Leadership during the 23rd General Election Chapter, held from 5 to 8 July at Arooj-e-Mariam Renewal Centre, Youhanabad, Lahore.

The Chapter brought together delegates from the Congregation to review its life and mission, evaluate its apostolic ministries, and discern priorities for the coming years.

The General Chapter was inaugurated by His Grace Archbishop Khalid Rehmat, OFM Cap., Archbishop of Lahore and President of the General Chapter. Inviting the delegates to seek God’s will through prayerful discernment, he acknowledged the dedicated service of the outgoing leadership and encouraged the newly elected team to lead the Congregation with fidelity to its Franciscan charism and commitment to the mission of the Church.

A major part of the Chapter was devoted to reviewing the Congregation’s life and apostolic work. Sr. Shumaila Mehnga, Superior General, presented the report of the outgoing administration, covering the Congregation’s spiritual life, formation, education, missionary outreach, community life, administration, and financial stewardship. Reports from the Formation Team, Education Team, Hostel Administration, and Local Superiors provided a broader assessment of the ministries entrusted to the Congregation.

Delegates also reviewed the Local Statutes, Constitutions, and Congregational Policies. Following discussion, the revised Local Statutes were approved, while the existing Constitutions were retained without amendment. Recommendations concerning governance, formation, administration, and apostolic ministry were adopted for future implementation.

The election of the General Superior and General Council was conducted in accordance with the Constitutions and the canonical norms of the Congregation under the supervision of Archbishop Khalid Rehmat. Following the election, the newly elected leadership assumed office through the formal handover of the Congregational seal and official responsibilities.

  The election of the General Superior and General Council was conducted in accordance with the Constitutions and the canonical norms of the Congregation under the supervision of Archbishop Khalid Rehmat. Through prayerful discernment and voting, the delegates elected Sr. Teresa Yaqoob, FTL, as Superior General. She will be assisted by the newly elected General Council comprising Sr. Judith Ranga, FTL (First Councillor), Sr. Edith Feroz, FTL (Second Councillor), Sr. Mercy Lal, FTL (Third Councillor), and Sr. Saima George, FTL (Fourth Councillor). Following the election, the newly elected leadership assumed office through the formal handover of the Congregational seal and official responsibilities. 

During the Chapter, the Congregation recognized the contribution of Archbishop Khalid Rehmat, OFM Cap., Rev. Fr. Mughal Peter, OFM, Rev. Fr. Clarence Hayat, OFM Cap., and Sr. Ruth Aziz, Head of the Commission Team, for their guidance and service throughout the Chapter. Appreciation was also expressed to Rev. Fr. Amjad Yousaf for the hospitality and logistical support provided during the gathering.

The General Chapter concluded with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, during which the sisters entrusted the newly elected leadership and the future mission of the Congregation to the Lord. The four-day assembly reaffirmed the Franciscan Tertiary Sisters’ commitment to living the Gospel in the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi and to strengthening their ministries in the service of the Church and society.

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