From January 1 to 5, 2025, ten members of the Fraternité Laïc Missionnaire (FLM) gathered in Rome to kick off the year with a mini pilgrimage steeped in faith and renewal. This visit to the SMA Generalate House brought together lay missionaries, the SMA General Council, resident priests, and the media team for shared moments of reflection and a renewed sense of commitment.

The FLM, deeply rooted in the missionary spirit, was founded in the 1980s by laypeople inspired by their experiences in Africa, particularly in Benin and Ivory Coast. Touched by simplicity, openness, and shared faith, these individuals partnered with the SMA to support missionary projects through prayer, professional engagement, and financial contributions. Their commitment exemplifies faith-based co-responsibility—a vocation that continues to adapt to the challenges of today’s world.

Strengthening Communication and Global Connections

One of the highlights of the visit was the exchange with the SMA media team. Discussions focused on improving communication, particularly by increasing the visibility of the work of lay missionaries worldwide. While the SMA Media Center serves as a central platform, it relies heavily on information provided by communication offices from local entities.

The FLM emphasized the importance of a more coordinated effort to highlight the contributions of lay missionaries, especially those in Africa, whose work often goes unrecognized on the international stage. This push for greater visibility goes beyond mere communication—it seeks to inspire others to embrace the missionary spirit in their own contexts.

Redefining Identity in a Changing World

A central theme during the discussions was the identity and relevance of the FLM in today’s rapidly changing world. Rooted in a charter promoting simplicity, faith sharing, and solidarity, FLM members are called to prayer, witnessing the Gospel, supporting missions, and contributing financially by dedicating 5% of their income to missionary projects.

However, the nature of missionary work has evolved. While the FLM once focused on sending members to Africa, it now explores ways to live out its mission in local contexts. Members acknowledged that family and professional commitments often limit participation in international projects, leading them to prioritize support from a distance and local engagement. This approach reflects the values of “living with” rather than “acting on behalf of” others and a commitment to serving the most vulnerable.

Renewed Commitment and a Shared Vision

On January 4, the FLM met with the SMA General Council to discuss fundamental questions: How can the FLM adapt to the needs of the contemporary world? How can lay missionaries remain co-responsible for the mission of faith while navigating personal and societal challenges? These conversations underscored a shared commitment to unity in diversity, with each SMA entity contributing uniquely to the global mission.

The pilgrimage’s pinnacle was the renewal of commitments by three FLM members—Béatrice, Gray, and Pierre—during Sunday Mass in the Generalate Chapel. Presided over by Superior General Fr. Antonio Porcelato, this ceremony reaffirmed their fidelity to the FLM charter and their missionary identity.

Discovering the Eternal City

Beyond meetings, the pilgrimage offered moments of spiritual and cultural enrichment through visits to iconic Roman sites. Highlights included the Church of St. Louis of the French, the Basilica of St. John Lateran, Santi Quattro Coronati, St. Paul Outside the Walls, the site of St. Paul’s martyrdom at Tre Fontane, and St. Peter’s Basilica. A visit to the Generalate of the Little Sisters of Jesus, inspired by the simplicity of Charles de Foucauld, further deepened the group’s spiritual journey. These experiences wove together heritage and personal reflection, following in the footsteps of pilgrims of the Jubilee Year.

Looking Ahead

The visit to the SMA Generalate House was marked by warm hospitality, enriching discussions, and shared meals that reflected the group’s diversity and unity. As they departed Rome, the FLM carried with them not only memories of iconic sites and moments of prayer but also a renewed commitment to their mission.

This pilgrimage underscored that the essence of mission transcends geographic boundaries—it is a way of life rooted in faith, openness, and a willingness to serve. As the FLM continues its journey, may their story inspire others to embrace the call to mission, wherever they may be.

“We count on you and need you as witnesses, as laypeople, to help us in mission.”