The International Chapter is a meeting of the Pilgrims which takes place, annually, at Pentecost. It is a weekend of workshops, discussions, worship, walks – exploring a theme in a variety of ways.
St Francis himself introduced the idea of holding Chapters at Pentecost when he spoke of the rules by which they should live and the importance of travelling throughout Europe. So it is fitting that that custom should continue and now, each Pentecost, at a gathering of Pilgrims of St Francis, a new annual theme is introduced.
The International Chapter at Pentecost 2026
May 23-25, 2026
You are invited to the annual International Chapter, which this year will be held in Belgium, in the beautiful Flanders region in the village of Wez-Velvain.
The theme for 2026 is: “All the same, all different.”
This weekend will be organised by all the participating countries. This will allow us to explore our theme in diverse ways through workshops,and our various contributions. We will also walk together to enjoy the beautiful surrounding countryside.
The location
This area has been steeped in European history for over 2,000 years. A land claimed by the Romans, the French, the English, the Spanish… and which is now a peaceful region of Belgium.
If you have time before or after, Tournai is worth a visit!
It is a city with a rich historical past.
Founded by the Romans on the banks of the Scheldt River, it is considered the oldest city in Belgium.
It remained strategically important and prosperous thanks to tapestry weavers, embroiderers, and goldsmiths. The city is renowned for its cathedral and belfry, both dating from the 12th century and listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
There are campsites nearby for those who would like to stay in this beautiful region.
Venue
We will meet at the Saint-Charles Community Centre in the village of Wez-Velvain, 6 km from Tournai, 6 km from the French border, and about 30 km from Lille.
The residence is a large house in a park, surrounded by nature, and belongs to the Sisters of the Community of Saint Charles Borromeo. Accommodation is simple and includes rooms of varying sizes. There are 18 single rooms and dormitories, all located on upper floors without a lift. Beds with pillows and blankets will be provided, but you will need to bring your own sheets or sleeping bag and a towel.
As usual, you can arrive the night before (Friday the 22nd), but meals will not be served until Saturday evening. A small kitchen is available for preparing your own meals. There is no restaurant or shop on site, but there is a supermarket 3 km away near Tournai.
Address: Foyer Saint Charles, rue du Chauchoir, 377620 WEZ-VELVAIN (Belgium)
Tel. In case of emergency:
Dominique and Monique Lesart: +33 (0)6 26 85 09 37
Sylviane Le Ny (Jeanson): +33 (0)6 86 59 31 86
| Programme | Friday, May 22nd | Arrive from 18:00: Nothing organised |
| Saturday, May 23rd | From 13:00: Welcome, registration | |
| 14:30: Opening of the chapter | ||
| Monday, May 24th | The Chapter will end by by 14:00 – after lunch: |
Arrival:
By public transport
Frequent trains from Lille or Paris to Tournai, but infrequent to Wez-Velvain. If
necessary, we can pick you up at the train station. In this case, please specify your
arrival time at Tournai station.
By car:
– The village is close to the main highways.
Contact and registration
Please send your application form, preferably, by email or post to the National Guardian before
April 1, 2026, Ian Mason 92 Bodmin Ave. Stafford ST17 0EQ , ianmason@talktalk.net
In case of cancellation,
please inform Ian Mason (address above) and Marie-Pierre Padulazzi immediately: +33 (0)6 77 38 52 38
mp.padulazzi@orange.fr
Please remember to bring:
• Bed linen (sheets, pillowcase) or a duvet (Sheets can be rented for €6)
• Towels
• Shoes for inside the house
• Optionally, a musical instrument, ball, frisbee, etc.
Cost
Payment by bank transfer to the postal account of the Companions of Saint Francis, French Branch IBAN FR69 2004 1010 1253 8210 1A03 381 BIC PSSTFRPPSCE
or upon arrival
| 23 -25 May | extra Night 22 May | |
| Adults | 100,00 € | 18,00 € |
| Those in difficult circumstances | 45,00 € | 12,00 € |
| Children above 12yrs & students | 45 ,00 € | 12,00 € |
| Children 4 à-12 yrss | 20,00 € | 10,00 € |
| Under 4 | Free | Free |