Kinshasa, DR Congo. From April 22 to 26, 2025, the Père Claret Scholasticate Community in Kinshasa hosted the annual Quinquennial session of the Independent Delegation of Congo of the Claretian Missionaries. Fourteen participants – priests, deacons, and brothers – gathered under the theme “Listeners and servants of the Word, let us walk together towards hope.”
The meeting took place in a special context, marked by the death of Pope Francis on April 21, ongoing conflict in the eastern part of the country, and preparations for the Delegation Assembly. These events guided the reflections toward a hope rooted in faith.
The session was structured around three main areas. First, a biblical and theological reflection on hope, with interventions by Fr. Tryphon Bimbangu and Fr. Olivier Mulombo, CMFF, who emphasized the Claretian’s mission to be a witness of the Risen Christ, even in times of crisis. Then, the challenges of evangelization in the digital age were addressed by Fr. Joël Nkongolo, CMF, Fr. Frédéric Mbemba, CMF, and Sr. Vivian Anyanwu, RMI, calling for a high-quality Christian presence on social media. Lastly, the educational aspect highlighted the importance of leadership and excellence in Catholic schools, with contributions from Mr. Charles Kosi and Mr. Nsimba Kapella.
Concluding with a positive evaluation, the session allowed for recommendations for future editions, especially regarding infrastructure improvement and better planning. Fr. Jean-Baptiste Makilandi Mambanzikisa, CMF, Major Superior, urged participants to remain faithful to their vocation as missionaries of hope.
This session was a time of spiritual renewal, missionary formation, and fraternal communion in the service of the Gospel.
Source: Br Georges-Giresse Mondo, Fr Gaston-Hussein Mokondi, Fr Eden Muke, CMFF.
