By Pierre-Paul Dossekpli

Members of the SMA Plenary Council 2026 on Tuesday, May 19, had a day of recollection led by Sr Jacinta ONYE, OLA, Provincial Councilor of the Sisters of Our Lady of Apostles (OLA), Nigeria. The retreat focused on the theme: “Come away and rest a while” (Mk 6:31).

From the opening session, Sr Jacinta invited the participants to “be present in this space and time,” guiding them first through a moment of silence and relaxation to prepare their hearts for reflection.

To deepen the spiritual experience, the daughter of Fr Augustin Planque, SMA — founder of the OLA Sisters — led the assembly in a session of Lectio Divina based on Matthew 11:25–30. The meditation opened into moments of personal prayer and group sharing among the Fathers.

Speaking afterward to SMA Media, Sr Jacinta encouraged the Unit Superiors to “trust in divine providence,” insisting that despite present challenges, “God will take care of his work.”

The recollection also coincided with the birthday of Fr Bernardin Kinnoume, Superior of the SMA Province of Strasbourg, France. Reflecting on the experience, he described it as a unique way to celebrate his special day.

“There couldn’t be a better way to celebrate a birthday than this — in silence and prayer,” he said.

He also expressed gratitude for the fraternity experienced during the recollection.

“To be surrounded by my brothers, praying with me throughout the day, was wonderful. It was truly beautiful.”

The recollection offered the members of the Plenary Council an opportunity to reconnect spiritually before continuing their discussions and discernment in the days ahead.