The main vocation of the Order of St. Camillus is to care for the sick. It has a presence in over 40 countries, managing hospitals and clinics all over the world.
The new Superior General of the Order is Leocir Pessini. He's originally from Brazil and in the past, he has helped manage over 56 hospitals. His team, includes four advisers from Asia, Africa and Europe.
Interestingly, his election coincides with the 400th anniversary since the death of the Order's founder, St. Camillus de Lellis.
FR. LEOCIR PESSINI
Superior General of the Camillians
'It's wonderful that we're celebrating the election of a new governing board, and that it coincides with 400 years since our founder's passing here in the very house.â?
The Order is recovering from an embarrassing incident, that left its former Superior General, Fr. Renato Salvatore in jail. He is accused of having two priests held against their will during the Order's election. He was allegedly hoping this would prevent them from voting against him, allowing instead for his re-election. An Italian tax adviser, who helped manage several hospital, apparently helped him carry this out, so they wouldn't lose control of the hospital management. The new Superior General says, he's now looking towards the future.
FR. LEOCIR PESSINI
Superior General of the Camillians
'Thank God the Order is still following its path. I wouldn't describe that episode as a crisis, but I would say it was a crisis of governance. One of the biggest challenges we face immediately and internally, is to rebuild the trust and hope among us.â?
That, will happen, he says. But in the meantime, the new Superior General reiterates that their main responsibility is to focus on taking care of the sick and vulnerable.
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