It took place in Rome from 15 to 19 September the reflection on Comboni´s Plan for the regeneration of Africa after 150 years from the time it was written and inspired till the current time. For this reflection came representatives of the various provinces of the Comboni Missionaries (MCCJ) and was attended by representatives of the Comboni Missionary Sisters (MC), Secular Comboni Missionaries (SCM) and Comboni Lay Missionaries (CLM).
Throughout this week of work, we have come to some conclusions that will “provoke” the next chapter of MCCJ and can also help us for a deeper reflection:
- Comboni´s Plan keeps actualize as far as allows us to realize the urgency and priority of our time. We do many important things, but we cannot respond to all needs, so we must discern what is vital in today’s world and reshape our missionary service consequently.
- Comboni receives the inspiration of the Plan because he places himself at the foot of the cross. Today the mission no longer has a “geographical” look. Therefore, at the foot of the cross, we must try to realize the movements of the Spirit and how we respond our world, no matter where we are called to be.
- The motto “Save Africa with Africa” cannot limit our action. Rather, it should lead us to take a renovated approach to the extent of our abilities. Consequently, the mission in Europe involves re-believe in the values of the European culture and adopts its language as a way of liberation and evangelization. The same applies to other cultures where we recognize so “vital” the Comboni presence.
- “I prefer a Church which is bruised, hurting and dirty because it has been out on the streets, rather than a Church which is unhealthy from being confined and from clinging to its own security”, says the Pope Francisco in the Apostolic Exhortation Evangelii Gaudium (# 49). The appeal of Pope Francisco challenges us to dare to grow and specialize in ministries that we believe are the most urgent priority in today’s world.
After a week of work and reflection, based on the Plan of Comboni and the demands of the Church itself, it was concluded that today’s mission will always pass, and above all, by the struggle for Life.
Thus, inspired by the charism of Comboni, we are called to rethink and reshape our being missionaries for many “have life and have it abundantly.”
Susana Vilas Boas
