Joint Session of the Central Government and the Africa – Madagascar Region
18-23 March 2024
Day 2 – Tuesday, March 19
The second day of the Joint Session between the Central Government of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate and the Africa-Madagascar focused on deepening unity, overcoming common challenges, and developing a common vision for the future. The day began with a Mass on the feast of St. Joseph, presided over by Father Ferdinand, the Provincial of Cameroon. In his homily, Father Ferdinand highlighted the figure of St. Joseph as a model of justice, search for God and availability to the divine will, inviting all those present to follow his example of patience, listening, and humility in the service of Christ and the mission.
After Mass, the discussions synthesized key points from various group conversations, spotlighting themes like vocations, ongoing formation, personnel management, financial stability, infrastructure development, and the enhancement of intercultural and linguistic diversity. These discussions reinforced the region’s dedication to a supportive and collaborative environment, addressing the multifaceted challenges encountered in their missions and communities. They openly recognized the successes and blessings of their missionary work while addressing the need for better integration of missionaries, administrative support for vocations, and attentive care for the community’s elderly and ailing members.
As the session unfolded, reports from the Central Government shed light on the congregation’s broader achievements and challenges in Africa, including infrastructure and the welfare of the Oblates. The conversation expanded to include strategic planning for future missions, emphasizing financial and resource management, leadership’s role in fostering community life, and mission outreach. Additional discussions covered missionary strategies, identity, justice and peace initiatives, youth ministry, and collaboration with lay associates, stressing the importance of formation and the forthcoming year dedicated to the vocation of brothers.
In the afternoon session, attendees had the pleasure of hosting Abbé Jean Sene, a priest from the Dakar diocese, who shared insights on interfaith dialogue within Senegal.
His discussion centered on: Exploring the origins of dialogue; Identifying various forms of dialogue; Discussing the challenges inherent in dialogue. This session provided a valuable opportunity to learn about the longstanding history of peaceful coexistence and mutual respect between Muslims and Christians.
