2023 Consulta
The Consulta is the advisory body of the Cardinal Grand Master, held every five years in Rome. Its proposals form part of the decision-making process on the most important issues concerning the Order. Every five years, under the chairmanship of the Cardinal Grand Master, the highest officers of the Order gather together with the Lieutenants and Magistral Delegates from around the world, representatives of the Secretariat of State, and a representative of the Congregation for the Oriental Churches, to discuss and reflect on common issues concerning the life of the Order in all its peripheral structures.
The 2023 Consulta was attended by around 200 leaders from 40 countries and was held from 4 to 11 November. The New Zealand Magistral Delegation was represented by Magistral Delegate Carleen Blucher DCHS.
Theme — Formation
The 2023 Consulta focused on the theme of Formation — the call to all members of the Order, from the time they begin their initial formation in discerning their vocation, to the ongoing formation that sustains them throughout their membership. Each day began with a morning Mass presided over by the Grand Master, His Eminence Fernando Cardinal Filoni, and on the third day by His Excellency Monsignor Caputo.
The Holy Land
A poignant address was delivered by His Eminence Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa OFM, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, via video link from Jerusalem. His address reflected on the impact of the war in Gaza on the Church in the Holy Land, on the brothers and sisters of the Order living and serving there, and on the urgent need for continued prayer and support. It was a moving and sobering moment for all present.
Papal Audience with Pope Francis
The Consulta concluded with a Papal Audience with His Holiness Pope Francis. Magistral Delegate Carleen Blucher DCHS was among those present and had the privilege of greeting the Holy Father personally. Pope Francis delivered an address to the assembled Knights and Dames, encouraging the Order to continue its work in supporting the Christian presence in the Holy Land and to deepen the spiritual formation of its members.
Report from the Magistral Delegate
Magistral Delegate Carleen Blucher DCHS attended the 2023 Consulta on behalf of the New Zealand Magistral Delegation. Her full account of the Consulta, including her reflections on the theme of Formation, the address of Cardinal Pizzaballa, and the Papal Audience with Pope Francis, can be read in her post below.
