Marist African Mission Commission Holds meeting in Malawi

From November 7 to 12, the African Mission Commission held its regular meeting in Malawi, uniting representatives from each administrative unit to discuss, strategize, and share insights for advancing the Marist mission across the African region. The gathering highlighted the dedication of the Marist Mission to uphold its values and commitments, particularly in education and evangelization, amidst Africa’s unique social and cultural landscape.

Representatives from each of the five Marist provinces in Africa were in attendance: Brother Jumbe Francis, from the Southern Africa Province; Brother Michel Longena, from the Province of PACE; Brother Roland Leonard Herinirina, from the Province of Madagascar; Brother Isaac Frimpong, from the West Africa Province; and Brother Paul Angulu, from the Nigeria Province. Each participant had the opportunity to present updates on their respective administrative units, sharing both successes and challenges, and discussing ways to support each other in strengthening Marist initiatives.

Highlights from the Secretariat of Education and Evangelization

Brother Nino Pizarro, Assistant Director of the Secretariat of Education and Evangelization, joined the meeting to present the latest updates from the Secretariat. His presentation underscored the Secretariat’s role in guiding and strengthening Marist education and evangelization worldwide, with a special focus on Africa’s needs. He emphasized the significance of the Marist International Mission Assembly and its seven core priorities, which serve as guiding pillars for Marist institutions around the globe. Additionally, he highlighted the Marist Global Network, which connects Marist apostolates, fostering a spirit of unity and collaboration on a global scale.

Key recommendations from FMSI

The Director of the Marist Foundation for International Solidarity (FMSI), Mr. Andrea Rossi, contributed valuable insights during the meeting. His presentation included an update on Universal Periodic Review (UPR) submissions for several African countries and offered targeted recommendations for the upcoming provincial strategic plans. These recommendations focused on enhancing advocacy, child rights, and community development projects, underscoring FMSI’s commitment to the Marist mission and its role in uplifting vulnerable communities throughout Africa.

Strengthening the Marist Mission across Africa

The AMC meeting in Malawi proved to be a pivotal moment for the Marist mission in Africa, with members exploring diverse ways to foster community, resilience, and servant leadership in Marist schools and programs. Addressing regional challenges was a priority, with discussions revolving around solutions to support sustainable growth and greater impact in Marist initiatives.

The AMC members also visited the Marist schools and the International Community near Lilongwe, where they witnessed firsthand the positive influence of Marist education in Malawi. These visits brought encouragement and solidarity to the brothers and collaborators, reminding them of the broader Marist family’s ongoing support. Encounters like these foster a sense of unity and inspiration, strengthening the Marist mission’s impact across the region.

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Br Roland Léonard HERINIRINA and Br Paul ANGULU