Rocca di Papa – Rome, Friday, May 30, 2025

As the second week of the 22nd General Assembly of the Society of African Missions (SMA) draws to a close, the work continues at Rocca di Papa in a spirit of discernment, responsibility, and fraternity. This Friday marked an important milestone in the strategic planning for the Society’s future.

The day began with a prayer inviting trust in the often slow but fruitful rhythm of divine action. The morning plenary session opened with the amendment, vote, and approval of the minutes from previous days, ensuring continuity and accountability in the Assembly’s proceedings.

The seven thematic working groups — focused on areas such as formation, governance, sustainability, and mission — continued crafting concrete proposals born of several days of prayer, dialogue, and communal reflection. These contributions will lay the groundwork for the final document that will guide SMA’s direction over the next six years. A strong sense of purpose and shared commitment permeates the groups, each driven by the desire to shape a mission responsive to today’s global challenges.

A Step Toward New Governance

Beyond thematic discussions, the day was marked by a key development in the process of leadership discernment. Father François Du Penhoat, the newly elected Superior General, presented a list of six candidates from which three will be chosen by the Assembly to form the new General Council.

In an interview with SMA Media Center, Father Emmanuel Dim, Secretary General, clarified the election procedures:

“According to the SMA’s Constitutions and Laws, the Superior General is assisted by three councillors, the first of whom becomes the Vicar General. Councillors may serve no more than two consecutive six-year terms. After the election of the Superior General, each Assembly member submits a ballot with three names. Based on these results and after consulting the members, the Superior General presents a list in alphabetical order. An absolute majority is required in the first two voting rounds, and a relative majority in the third.”

The decisive vote will take place Saturday morning at 10 a.m., following a time of adoration at 9 a.m., in an atmosphere of prayerful discernment.

Fruitful Slowness

The day ended in a spirit of patience and depth. The morning prayer had set the tone:

“Trust in the slow work of God […] Let ideas mature. Don’t rush as if you are already what time will make of you tomorrow.”

With this mindset, the working groups are finalizing their proposals for Monday’s presentations. Nothing is set in stone, and all remain open to change — a vital hallmark of a living, synodal Assembly.

Tomorrow will mark another critical step: the election of the General Council, which will accompany the Superior General in leading the SMA and proclaiming the Gospel across the world.

By Dominic Wabwireh