The International Board of Directors (IBD) of Franciscans International met in Assisi, Italy from 11 to 14 May 2023. After significant deliberations, prayer and discernment, on 13 May the IBD appointed Blair Matheson TSSF, to be the new Executive Director of FI. He will replace Brother Markus Heinze OFM on 1 January 2024.
Blair is an Anglican Third Order Franciscan from New Zealand. He and Br. Markus will work together during the transition period from now until the end of the current calendar year. The Board recognizes the tremendous contributions by Br. Markus, who, over the past eleven years, guided FI through significant changes toward both organizational and financial stability.
The members of the IBD look forward to working with Blair and the dedicated staff of FI as we continue to stand up for human dignity, care for creation, and promote peace, defending human rights and raising these concerns at the United Nations and to the international community.
Photo from left to right: Markus Heinze OFM; Blair Matheson TSSF; Michael Perry OFM; Carlos Trovarelli OFMConv (liaison from the Conference of the Franciscan Family); Charity Nkandu SFMA; Carolyn Townes OFS; James Donegan OFMCap; José Eduardo Jazo TOR; and Joseph Blay OFMConv.