Fr. Ted Kalaw re-elected Superior General of the Clerics Regular Minor
The 64th General Chapter of the Order of the Clerics Regular Minor was celebrated in Sacrofano, Rome. Fr. Teodoro O. Kalaw, CRM, the 60th Superior General was re-elected Superior General for the next 6 years, on July 13, 2024.
After accepting the mandate and with great humility he said yes and made the profession of faith and the greeting of peace and sign of obedience from the Chapter Fathers followed as prescribed by the Ritual.
Father Ted was born in Lipa City, Philippines, on September 10, 1977. One of six children, he is the son of Francisco and Belen Kalaw. He graduated from De La Salle University in Lipa City, Philippines, where he obtained a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Secondary Education. He formally entered the Adorno Fathers' house of Formation in Ramsey, New Jersey, in August 1999. For his theological studies, he enrolled at Immaculate Conception Seminary in Seton Hall University where he obtained a Masters of Divinity in Pastoral Theology. He professed his Solemn Vows on June 18, 2005, and was ordained a priest by Most Reverend John W. Fleesey, Auxiliary Bishop of Newark, on December 8, 2005 in St. Joseph Church, Lodi, New Jersey.<br>
After a long and tiring days of the General Chapter, 13 days into the proceedings, the Chapter Fathers likewise elected the members of the General Consulta:
- Fr. Teodoro O. Kalaw, CRM -Superior General
- Fr. Fernando Olivieri, CRM -Vicar General
- Fr. Biju Thattamparampil, CRM -Procurator General
- Fr. Norbert Marayo, CRM -Secretary General
- Fr. Boban Madathiparampil, CRM - 4th Council Member
Over the last six years, under the leadership of Fr. Kalaw, the Order has experienced a period of growth and consolidation. Several religious houses were canonically erected and key documents were approved that strengthened the identity and mission of the Order. Delegations in Italy, India, Germany, the United States, the Philippines, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania and Kenya have benefited from these developments, witnessing growing unity and renewed commitment.
Looking to the future, the Order is preparing to face new challenges with faith and determination. With divine grace and the intercession of the Holy Founders, the Order of Clerics Regular Minor continues its mission for the greater glory of the Risen Christ. The election of Fr. Kalaw and the new Council represents a sign of hope and renewed dedication to the service of God and the community.
The 2024 General Chapter reiterated the importance of dialogue and collaboration, fundamental elements for spiritual and community growth. As highlighted during the Mass of the Holy Spirit that opened the Chapter, it is essential to open ourselves to the gifts of the Holy Spirit and work together in humility to bring hope and healing to the world.
This new chapter in the Order's history represents an ongoing commitment to faith and service, uniting all members in a common mission of love and dedication to God and others.