A Special Moment

Yesterday’s first Sunday Mass at the Parish of “St Michel d’Adjamé” was marked by a moment that stood out from the usual rhythm of the liturgy, a moment of gratitude, recognition, and quiet emotion. In the presence of the faithful, the SMA had the honor of welcoming Mrs. Reine Sidje KOUTOUAN, as a new honorary member.

It is worth noting that this occasion marked the recognition of two individuals as honorary members of the SMA. While Mrs. Reine KOUTOUAN was formally presented during the Mass, the second recipient, Bishop Maurice Konan Kouassi, will have his own moment of recognition and presentation at a later date, in a separate but equally meaningful setting.

From the very beginning of the celebration at St Michel, where Mrs. Reine KOUTOUAN was received as a new honorary member, a sense of something special already permeated the liturgy. As the congregation gathered in prayer, the readings and hymns seemed to echo the very spirit of what was to come.

The Welcoming of Mrs. Reine KOUTOUAN

After the homily, the atmosphere gently shifted. Mrs. Reine KOUTOUAN was invited forward. In a few heartfelt words, the SMA Provincial Superior of Cote d’Ivoire, Fr. Narcisse Ogou SEKA, spoke of a woman whose generosity, dedication, and constant support have quietly strengthened the SMA in Cote d’Ivoire over time. This was not just a formal recognition, it was a deeply deserved tribute.

It was also a moment for Fr. Narcisse to recall the meaning of this distinction: An honorary member is not simply a title; it is a sign of esteem reserved for those whose commitment has left a lasting mark. It honors individuals who, even without formal obligations, embody the values and mission of the congregation in a remarkable way.

A Tradition Rooted in the Society

It is worth recalling that this gesture is part of a long-standing tradition within the SMA. As early as the Constitutions of 1908, provision was made for such recognition:

“The Superior General and his Council may grant the title of Honorary Member of the Society to distinguished benefactors who would have the right, after their death, to the same memorial as the members proper” (CL. 1908 edition, no. 123).

This vision has been reaffirmed over time, notably in the Directory of 1954, and the Plenary Council of 1995, which clarified the conditions for admission:

“The title of Honorary Member may be conferred upon any person who fulfills one of the following:

• To be a distinguished benefactor
• To have served the Society for a long time in a devoted and voluntary manner.
• To have maintained strong and lasting spiritual and human ties with the Society”.

Historically, according to records held in the International Archives in Rome, the first person to receive this honor was Llewellyn Count Blake in 1913.

Count Blake, as recalled by Fr. Edward DEENEY, “was a generous benefactor towards Catholic charities generally and towards the Society of African Missions in particular. For these charities he was created a Papal Count by Pope Pius X on 4/12/1905 and was made an Honorary Member of the Society of African Missions on Dec. 17th, 1913.”

This example illustrates how the title has long been used to honor individuals whose generosity and commitment have significantly supported the mission of the Society.

In most cases, however, this recognition, as pointed out by Fr Bernard Favier, is granted within a particular Unit rather than to the Society as a whole, highlighting the close and personal bonds formed at the local level, though there have been rare exceptions, such as Cardinal Bernardin Gantin and some after him.

A Moment of Gratitude and Communion

Within this spirit of tradition and continuity, the recognition given to Mrs. Reine KOUTOUAN takes on its full meaning. Visibly moved, she responded with humility and sincerity. She expressed her gratitude for this honor and reaffirmed her strong attachment to both the SMA and the parish. Her words, simple yet genuine, resonated deeply with those present.

What followed was more than applause, it was a shared sense of joy. Smiles, glances, and a warm energy filled the church, transforming this brief ceremony into a truly memorable moment of communion.

As the Mass continued, there remained a quiet feeling that something meaningful had been celebrated, not only the journey of one person, but the spirit of a congregation that knows how to recognize and cherish those who give so much of themselves.

Yesterday at St Michel Parish of Adjame, gratitude took center stage, and it was beautifully received.

Brice ULrich AFFERI