On the first weekend of July 2025 (July 4–6), the last formation meeting of the CLM movement for this formation year took place in Warsaw. It was a very special event. Not only did we celebrate the Day of the Comboni Family but we also welcomed a new member – Leszek – into the movement.
During a solemn Holy Mass on Saturday afternoon, Leszek officially joined the CLM movement. In his prayer he said that he heard the first missionary call when he was 5 but he had to wait almost 50 years more in order to finally respond to this call.” But as they say “better late than never”. In September, he will depart for a missionary experience in Kenya. After the Mass, we enjoyed a barbecue with Leszek’s family and friends.
Saturday also included the official introduction of the new Coordinating Group: Asia, Ania, and Paweł, as well as a summary of the most important events of this formation year, such as the international meeting in Maia, Portugal, with members from around the world, and our missionary Iza parting on her first mission to Kenya.
The Comboni Lay Missionary community in Kenya recently welcomed Giulia, a missionary from Italy, who arrived on June 23rd to begin her journey in Kenya. A group of enthusiastic Comboni Lay Missionaries gathered at the airport to greet her, filled with anticipation and heartfelt greetings.
Our Kenya community is growing, and we’re happy to receive new members like Giulia. Together, we’ll work towards creating a more just and compassionate society, inspired by the Comboni charism.
We extend a warm welcome to Giulia as she embarks on this new chapter in Kenya. We’re confident that her dedication and compassion will shine brightly as she serves alongside us.
From the 13th to 15th of June, the CLM candidates of Kenya came together in unity and faith to deepen our understanding of conflict resolution. Guided by our motto, “Save Africa for Africa”, we gathered in Meru, Nairobi, and Kitelakapel, as members of one family – all connecting either in person or online, with a shared purpose of growth and transformation.
This important meeting was not just a routine workshop. It was a space of learning, reflection, and renewal of our commitment to the mission founded by St. Daniel Comboni, whose spirit still burns strong in each of us.
Teachings on Conflict and Its Resolution:
The session began with a rich and insightful lecture on Conflict Resolution by Linda from Kitelakapel. We explored the definition of conflict resolution, the characteristics and importance of conflict, and its three main aspects: cognitive, emotional, and behavioural. Linda also guided us through the steps involved in resolving conflict in a constructive and Christian manner. We also reflected on different styles of handling conflict: Compromising – Avoiding – Accommodating – Competing – Collaborating. Each style brought out how different personalities approach conflict, and how we can all learn to adapt and apply healthier methods in the mission context. We were reminded that conflict is not the absence of love, but rather an opportunity to grow, understand each other better, and strengthen our bonds.
Contributions from Fr. Sylvester, Alberto and fr. Maciek:
Fr. Sylvester followed with a lecture that connected conflict to our missionary life, drawing examples from the life of St. Daniel Comboni, our patron. He reminded us how Comboni navigated cultural tensions, resisted opposition to his vision, and continually sought reconciliation among divided groups in his mission. This showed us how to resolutely address conflict with compassion and clarity, guided by our faith and the teachings of Christ. Fr. Sylvester’s words emphasized that peaceful resolution begins from within, with prayer and humility.
Alberto gave us a practical and much-needed talk on handling conflict without drama or chaos. He reminded us that being missionaries means being ambassadors of peace, not just through words but through actions. He encouraged us to always aim for maturity, calm, and understanding in times of disagreement.
It was a thought-provoking lecture, which emphasized that conflict is a normal part of life. He encouraged us to establish principles for resolving conflicts before they arise. He also introduced us to a practical tool called STABEN, which breaks down conflict resolution into:
– S – Source
– T – Time and place
– A – Amicable approach
– B – Behaviour
– E – Emotion
– N – Need
Lastly, Fr. Maciek led a recap session on Lectio Divina, reminding us how to properly prepare ourselves—spiritually and mentally—before engaging with the Word of God. It was a call to deepen our relationship with Scripture as a regular part of our formation.
Moment of sharing:
We concluded with individual reflections, where each participant shared what they had learned, enjoyed, and taken to heart during the session.
New Beginnings
A very exciting highlight of this meeting was the Meru group welcoming four new members. These newcomers, after engaging fully in the sessions, expressed their joy and eagerness to become part of our mission. They have officially become candidates of CLM, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to journey with them. Their enthusiasm and openness brought new energy and hope, reminding us that our mission is growing, and the seed planted by St. Daniel Comboni continues to bear fruit.
And there is more! In Nairobi, we were delighted to welcome, as well, two new candidates to the Comboni family. Their joy and enthusiasm added a special touch to the session, and they expressed how meaningful and welcoming the formation experience was for them.
Participant Reflections:
“I really feel comfortable and I’m ready on this journey and I really love your bonding and hospitality.” – Eliphus, new candidate, Meru
“I thank God for connecting me with this group.” – Getrude, Meru
They joined CLM because they want to dedicate their lives in serving God and do acts of charity.
Looking Forward
As we concluded our sessions, we left feeling empowered, not only with knowledge but with a renewed sense of commitment to walk this path together. The weekend was a beautiful reminder that growth comes through honest conversations, listening with love, and facing conflict head-on with grace and faith. It was fruitful, enriching, and continued to equip us with essential tools as we journey forward in our missionary vocation. We look forward to more moments of learning, bonding, and deepening our mission. Together, we continue to Save Africa for Africa – in peace, in unity, and with hearts full of hope.
June was a month full of blessings for the CLM of Guatemala, by the grace of God and under the intercession of St. Daniel Comboni, with various initiatives that marked our missionary work.
On June 7, we carried out our missionary activity in the community of León El Manzanillo. During our visit, in addition to spending time with the members of the community, we gave a talk on the Holy Spirit and Pentecost. As part of the day, we held a workshop on making eco-friendly candles, and those who participated were very enthusiastic and satisfied with the experience.
On the same date, we celebrated the 8th anniversary of the Chispuditos Program. This nutritional project has focused on the children of the villages of La Salvadora I and II, in the municipality of Santa Catarina Pinula, as well as their mothers, bringing them the Word and promoting their development as leaders. It should be noted that last year the program was handed over to the community; since then, the mothers have been leading the program.
On Sunday, June 8, we participated in the Vocational Expo organized by the Vicariate of the Center: Our Lady of the Assumption, held in the gym of Don Bosco College. This event allowed us to share with young people interested in the different congregations present. In addition to the information stands, there were moments of praise, Eucharistic adoration, and Holy Mass. It was a valuable opportunity to transmit and live the charism of the Comboni Family together with those in attendance.
A week later, on Sunday, June 15, we held our monthly community gathering, beginning with the celebration of Holy Eucharist, followed by a shared breakfast. During the gathering, we reflected on the Comboni charism and worked on a special theme about the key elements that strengthen self-esteem. We addressed aspects such as self-control, personal goals, communication skills, and body image perception. As a pleasant surprise, we had a visit from a married couple interested in learning more about our community.
In each activity of the month, we reaffirmed our commitment to serve and accompany the communities, always driven by our faith and evangelizing mission.
We pray that, as missionaries, we do not rely solely on human and structural resources, but above all on the humanising power of the Gospel. Lord, hear us.
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