Br Peter Clinch is the new congregation leader for the Christian Brothers’ global congregation leadership team, becoming only the second Australian to be elected to the position.
The Melbourne-based brother was elected at the Congregation’s general chapter, held in Dublin, from late January to February 5.
From left to right, the Christian Brothers international leadership team: Hugo Cáceres, John Casey, Peter Clinch, Senan D’Souza, David Ryan Silva. PHOTO: Christian Brothers Oceania Province .
The chapter was commenced in Lima, Peru, in 2020, but was prorogued after two weeks due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Christian Brothers general chapter is a time of discernment and decision making for the delegates. This process is achieved through prayer, active listening, and discussion among attendees. When the Christian Brothers hold a general chapter, they select a theme that guides the process of the chapter. The theme for this general chapter was listening, discipleship and ministry among poor and disenfranchised people.
The general chapter is also the time when attendees elect their new authorities for the next five years.
Br Clinch will be joined on the congregation leadership team by Br John Casey (Ireland), Br Senan D’Souza (India-Africa), Br David Ryan Silva (India) and Br Hugo Carceras (Americas).
In an interview excerpt on the Christian Brothers Oceania Province’s new website, Br Clinch expressed his hopes for the future of the congregation and its role in promoting Pope Francis’ encyclical on ecology, Laudato Si’.
“We as a congregation need to lead the way as said by our present Pope in Laudato Si’ … Our prime focus is to be in tune with the planet and to understand what it means – that all live has a right to live on this planet,” Br Clinch said. “All ecosystems are relevant and are interwoven to give proper life for all people.”