Colombo, Sri Lanka. The Encounter of the General Government with the Major Superiors, which will be held from 1–9 March 2026 at the Serene Pasture Retreat Centre in Colombo, began on 2 March with Morning Prayer organized by Bro. Carlos Verga, CMF on behalf of the General Government. Convened as part of the preparation for the forthcoming XXVII General Chapter, the meeting gathers leaders of the Congregation for prayer, reflection, and synodal discernment.
At the opening session, 29 participants were present, while six were unable to arrive due to travel disruptions caused by ongoing conflicts in the region. Some joined the sessions online. The day began in a spirit of fraternity and cultural richness, with traditional Sinhala music and dance, followed by a Tamil welcome ceremony. The solemn enthronement of the Word of God, accompanied by readings and prayers, set a prayerful tone under the theme: “Peace be with you” (Lk 24:36). Special prayers were offered for peace in the world.
Fr. Joseph Jayaseelan, CMF, Major Superior of St. Joseph Vaz, delivered the welcome address, expressing gratitude for hosting the Encounter. Fr. Henry Babatunde Omonisaye, CMF, then presented the objectives and schedule, emphasizing synodal preparation for the XXVII General Chapter as a journey of congregational discernment.
In his address, Fr. Mathew Vattamattam, CMF, Superior General, described the Encounter as a grace-filled moment amid profound global and ecclesial transitions. He affirmed that leadership is fundamentally a spiritual responsibility, entrusted with safeguarding the charism and shaping the missionary future. Highlighting the Church’s synodal journey, he called for deep listening, co-responsibility, and unity in diversity.
The Superior General outlined key priorities: strengthening fraternal and intercultural community life; fostering discernment and accompaniment; deepening missionary spirituality rooted in prayer; remaining close to the peripheries; and promoting transparency and shared responsibility. He encouraged viewing fragility as an evangelical opportunity and urged attentive listening to the Spirit so that the XXVII General Chapter may become a true Pentecost moment.
During the afternoon, participants worked in groups on the DISCOVER phase, reflecting on the impact of the 2021 General Chapter and identifying present challenges and calls of the Spirit. The day concluded with the Eucharistic Celebration, where the Superior General invited humility, gratitude, and renewed missionary commitment as foundations for the journey ahead.
The Encounter continues in an atmosphere of unity and prayerful discernment for the future of the Congregation.
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