Ruwa, Zimbabwe. From September 22 to 26, 2025, the Claretians in Zimbabwe gathered for a formative and fraternal experience in Ruwa, where ten missionaries—five from Zimbabwe, three from Spain, and two from India—participated in a Discerning Leadership Training facilitated by Fr. Jude Thaddeus Langeh, CMF.
Over five days, Fr. Jude guided the group through twelve modules on the essence of Claretian leadership today, ranging from the foundations of following Jesus and leading as Claretians, to practical themes such as discernment, competencies, conversation, conflict management, and mission strategy. The sessions emphasized servant leadership, teamwork, and shared discernment rooted in the Gospel and the Claretian charism.
A particular highlight was the creative use of Erin Meyer’s Culture Map to foster intercultural understanding and collaboration among participants from different cultural backgrounds. By reflecting on the instincts and traditions of Zimbabwe, Spain, and India, the missionaries recognized cultural diversity as an enrichment to community life and leadership rather than a challenge.
On September 27, Fr. Jude extended the training to students of Claret House, offering a session on leadership formation to inspire and prepare the future leaders of the mission.
The experience was received with gratitude and enthusiasm. Fr. Joaquim Bejar, CMF, coordinator of the mission, and Fr. Nyasha Choga, CMF, expressed appreciation for the depth and creativity of the program. Likewise, Fr. Manuel Jesús Ogalla Carrera, CMF, formator of the students, highlighted the positive impact on the younger generation, noting how the training fostered a spirit of service and fraternity.
Looking ahead, the Claretians in Zimbabwe have committed to multiplying this experience in their local communities, ensuring that leadership is lived as a service inspired by Jesus, Mary, and St. Anthony Mary Claret. What began as a training has become a moment of profound community life, shaping leaders ready to discern, collaborate, and serve with renewed zeal.
