Working behind closed doors

September 11, 2024: This morning, the Sisters from the Japan Province shared their music and prayers at Mass, like the Sisters from the US Canonical House did yesterday. 

After breakfast, the perspective work with Sister Carol Zinn continued.

At three o’clock this afternoon, the doors to the Chapter Hall were closed to the guests as the Capitulars now prepare the election of the new General Council, starting with the lists of candidates.

Behind the doors, the work of the interpreters continues who facilitate the discussions in German, English, Polish and Japanese.

The longest serving interpreter is Rolf Lehmann. He has been working for the Congregation for 48 years, beginning with the 1976 General Chapter, translating from German into English and vice versa.

For Rolf Lehmann, who turned 90 this year, this is his 9th General Chapter of the Hospital Sisters of St. Francis. Between chapters, he has also worked at many other international meetings. The Sisters are very grateful for Herrn Lehmann’s language proficiency, his insight into international aspects of the congregation, and his friendship and support through all these years.