The 142 representatives of the Franciscans elected him today at St. Mary of the Angels in Assisi, where they are holding their general chapter.
Father Rodríguez Carballo, 49, is currently general definitor and general secretary for formation and studies.
The new Minister General was born in Sarreaus, Spain, in 1953. He made his solemn profession in Jerusalem on Jan. 1, 1976, and was ordained a priest on June 29, 1977.
He succeeds Father Giacomo Bini, who finished a six-year term. More information is at www.ofm.org.