The General Chapter of 2009, in continuity with the preceding Chapters recommended that the General Government continues accompanying and animating the process already begun of the restructuring of Organisms (cf. MFL 64.1). The XXV General Chapter (2015), “we will bring to conclusion those processes of reorganization already initiated and will consolidate those already carried out in accordance with the criteria set out in the last General Chapters” (MS 72.4). The XXVI General Chapter in this same line of continuity, established: “Reorganization, always aimed at qualifying missionary life and service, is consubstantial to our vocation and must be intensified where it is slower to become a reality.” (QC 24 c).
After knowing and evaluating the results of a previous sounding conducted in the Delegation of Saint Jean-Paul II, the Superior General and his Council appointed the Major Superior and the First Government Consultors of this new Independent Delegation.
On the feast of St. John Paul II, the patron of the Delegation, took place the official proclamation of the Independent Delegation of St. John Paul II. Until then, the Organism comprising Côte d’Ivoire and Burkina Faso functioned as a Dependent Delegation of the Polish Province, with its government appointed by the Provincial Government. From now on, it is directly linked to the General Government of the Congregation.
By decision of the General Government, Fr. Ange Christophe Anougba, CMF, was appointed Delegate Superior; Fr. Andrew Cantona Adukwaw, CMF, Econome and Consultor; and Frs. Franck Laopan Paré, CMF, and Michael Oladigui Olawy, CMF, Consultors. These appointments mark a new phase of pastoral maturity and missionary responsibility for the region while strengthening communion with the whole Congregation.
The celebration took place in the Parish of St. John Mary Vianney in Abidjan, presided over by Fr. Andrew and concelebrated by Fr. Piotr Bęza, CMF, Provincial of Poland, who traveled from Poland for the occasion. Missionaries from the communities of Anan-Bingerville, Adzopé, and Bouaflé joined the celebration, together with parishioners, the Claretian Sisters, and representatives of various groups, creating a joyful atmosphere of fraternity and thanksgiving.
During the celebration, Fr. Emilien Esmel, CMF, delivered the homily, and Fr. Michael Olawy, CMF, read the decree of erection issued by the Superior General. The message of Fr. Mathew Vattamattam, CMF, Superior General, was then shared with the assembly, followed by words of gratitude from Fr. Ange, Fr. Andrew, and Fr. Piotr.
Special recognition was given to the first Claretian missionaries from Poland, whose dedication and generosity laid the foundations of the Claretian mission in West Africa. Their legacy continues in the growth of local vocations, the establishment of new parishes and communities, a formation and retreat house, social initiatives, and future projects such as a curia and school. This ongoing development reflects a dynamic and hopeful missionary spirit in this part of Africa.
Amid the celebration, prayers were also raised for peace in Côte d’Ivoire, where political tensions related to upcoming elections prevented the participation of some confreres. The call for reconciliation and social harmony echoed as a shared missionary commitment to justice and peace.
Entrusted to the intercession of St. John Paul II, the new Delegation begins its journey with gratitude and hope, confident in the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the maternal care of Mary, Mother of the Church.
Ad maiorem Dei gloriam — may God be glorified in all the works of this new Delegation, and may His peace and blessing rest upon Côte d’Ivoire, Burkina Faso, and the entire Claretian Family.
