A day of joy, thanksgiving and deep emotion marked the life of Anselmo Fabiano, an SMA seminarian, who on Sunday, 6 September 2026, made his perpetual oath of belonging to the Society of African Missions (SMA), Province of Italy.

The celebration took place in the SMA-OLA community of Feriole (Padua), in the presence of his whole family, SMA confreres, OLA sisters, and a large group of friends who gathered to accompany him on this important step in his missionary journey.

The Holy Mass was presided over by Fr. Ceferino Cainelli, Provincial Superior of Italy, who expressed the joy and gratitude of the entire community for what he described as a truly extraordinary moment.

In his homily, he highlighted the importance of the two families that have shaped Anselmo’s journey: his family of origin, where he was born, received the faith and where his vocation first matured, and his SMA family, which he now enters definitively through his perpetual commitment, allowing him to live fully the missionary calling that belongs to the whole Church.

One of the most moving moments of the celebration came when Anselmo pronounced his perpetual oath:

“… called by the Lord to announce the Gospel to the nations, particularly in Africa, and knowing the aim of the Society of African Missions, swear to remain as a member of this Socitey for the rest of my life, in order to take part in its missionary life and activity…”

Standing beside Anselmo were the two witnesses he had chosen for this significant moment: his mother, Dalia and Fr. Giuseppe Brusegan, a confrere in the SMA-OLA community of Feriole.

Their presence gave particular meaning to the celebration, bringing together the bonds of family, vocation and missionary community that have accompanied Anselmo throughout his journey.

Anselmo’s perpetual commitment comes after years of formation and preparation for mission. He recently completed his institutional theological studies, obtaining a Bachelor’s degree from the Faculty of Padua last 25 June.

His journey will soon enter another important stage. He is to be ordained a deacon, together with three diocesan companions, on Saturday 12 September in the Cathedral of Como.

Following his diaconal ordination, he will leave for Egypt; mission to which he is already familiar, having spent a year of tirocinio. He will continue his studies of the Arabic language, take an active part in the pastoral life of the Choubra Parish and prepare for his eventual priestly ordination.