Ankarana, Madagascar. On 31 October 2026, the Claretian Mission in Madagascar celebrated a significant milestone with the official reception of its first five aspirants, marking a new chapter in the Congregation’s five-year missionary presence in the country.
The five young men were formally welcomed during a Eucharistic celebration at Ankarana Parish, presided over by Fr Eusabius Toda, CMF, Mission Superior. The celebration also marked the conclusion of Claret Week and the Month of Mary.
The reception followed a process of vocational discernment and preparation that began in September 2026. Following the presentation of the five candidates to the General Government, approval was granted on 16 October. On the same day, Fr Edwin DeMarie Mumukom, CMF, was appointed Formator of the Aspirants. An online meeting on 29 October with the Superior General, Fr Mathew Vattamattam, CMF; the General Prefect of Formation, Fr Joseph Mbungu, CMF; and the General Econome, Fr Manuel Tamargo, CMF, helped finalise preparations for the formation programme.
The five aspirants are:
- Rakotoniaina Lucien Wenceslas
- Rakotonoely Fanomezantsoa Frédéric
- Ramanamiravo Feno Dimilahy Alexandre
- Randriamanirisoa Tokiniaina Fidèle
- Rasolofoniaina Pierre
During the celebration, each aspirant received a lighted candle symbolising Christ, the Light of the World, whom they are called to follow. They also recited the Claretian prayer inspired by Constitution No. 9, expressing the missionary ideal of “a man on fire with love, who spreads its flames wherever he goes.”
The reception represents an important step towards establishing a local vocational formation journey in Madagascar. It also offers renewed hope for the growth and continuity of the Claretian missionary presence in the country.
As these five young men begin their formative journey, the Claretian family entrusts them to the maternal protection of the Immaculate Heart of Mary and the intercession of St Anthony Mary Claret, praying that they may grow in faith, deepen their vocational discernment, and become authentic Claretian missionaries.
