Rocca di Papa – Rome, May 27, 2025

On the second day of the second week of the General Assembly of the Society of African Missions (SMA), delegates gathered once more to reflect on the central question posed at the start of the week: “What is the Lord asking of us, as the SMA, for the next six years?” Today, that inquiry evolved into something deeper and more personal: “To what is God calling us, as members of the SMA?”

During the morning plenary session, participants were invited to translate this spiritual reflection into practical direction, identifying key priority areas where the Society should focus its energy. The discernment process was carried out in a spirit of fidelity to the Gospel and attentiveness to the signs of the times.

As Fr. Richard Angolio reminded the Assembly, “The heart of discernment is being present where God is already at work — in us, among us, and beyond us.”

From the working groups, seven priority areas emerged:

1. Pastoral Accompaniment – A clear need for stronger pastoral support and personalized care, especially for confreres in difficulty.
2. Synodality – Emphasizing shared discernment, closer collaboration with local Churches, and improved coordination between general and local leadership.
3. Solidarity and Sustainability – A call to responsible stewardship of financial and human resources.
4. Formation – Deepening both initial and ongoing formation to better prepare missionaries for leadership, intercultural living, and modern pastoral challenges.
5. Growth and Development of Entities – Strengthening the viability of smaller units and improving human resource management in mission contexts.
6. Intercultural Dialogue and Communion – Fostering a culture of mutual listening and respect among members and across cultures.
7. New Models of Evangelization – Inviting creativity and renewal in how the Gospel is proclaimed in today’s world.

These contributions will now be refined for incorporation into the final document of the Assembly.

Discernment Toward New Leadership

The afternoon took a pivotal turn as the Assembly turned its attention to the upcoming election of the new Superior General, scheduled for tomorrow. In an atmosphere of prayerful discernment, delegates reflected on the pressing question: What kind of leader does the SMA need at this defining moment in its history?

During the plenary, the following leadership qualities were emphasized for the person who will be entrusted with guiding the Society forward:

• A deep passion for mission
• A peacemaker and team player
• A seasoned and visionary person with spiritual wisdom
• A good listener, humble servant, and thoughtful communicator
• A committed SMA member with integrity and love for the Church

Fr. Jos Pijpers, the senior member of the Assembly, offered insights into the role of the scrutineer and the significance of the election process for the future of the Society.

A Moment of Spiritual Preparation

The day concluded with a time of Eucharistic Adoration, allowing each participant to spiritually prepare for the critical moment ahead. A spirit of unity and inner stillness marked the closing of the day.

Earlier, the minutes from the previous sessions were formally approved, following minor corrections.

In this atmosphere of faith, fraternity, and discernment, the SMA General Assembly stands on the threshold of a decisive step — the election of a new Superior General. This will be a key moment for the Society’s missionary witness and governance in the years to come.

As always, the Assembly continues its journey — listening to God, to one another, and to the world.

By Dominic Wabwireh