A Shared Legacy, A Renewed Mission: SMA and OLA Celebrate a Historic Triple Jubilee in Lagos
LAGOS, NIGERIA – June 1, 2026 — Some anniversaries mark the passage of time. Others become moments of grace that invite a deeper look at the past, present, and future. Such was the atmosphere in Lagos as leaders of the Society of African Missions (SMA) and the Sisters of Our Lady of Apostles (OLA) gathered to celebrate a remarkable triple jubilee: 150 years of the OLA Sisters, 170 years of the SMA Fathers, and the 200th years of Fr. Augustine Planque, SMA, Founder of the OLA Sisters.
Held at the Domus Fidei Centre of the Sisters of the Eucharistic Heart of Jesus, the gathering brought together members of the two missionary families whose histories have remained intertwined for generations. More than a commemorative event, it became a celebration of a shared charism and a renewed commitment to walk together in mission.
A Reunion of Missionary Family
The spirit of the celebration was evident from the moment the OLA Sisters arrived at the centre on May 31, following the conclusion of the SMA Plenary Council. Their arrival transformed the venue into a place of joyful reunion, marked by laughter, warm greetings, and the unmistakable sense of belonging that comes when family members come together after time apart.
Beginning with Prayer and Reflection
The jubilee celebrations opened with a period of prayer and reflection led by Sr. Anne Falola, a member of the OLA General Council. Through a Lectio Divina cantered on the theme “Being Together… Walking Together… Running Together,” she invited participants to reflect on key moments from Scripture that illuminate the journey of discipleship and mission.
Drawing from passages in the Gospels and the Acts of the Apostles, the reflection explored three dimensions of missionary life: being together in friendship with Christ, walking together in discernment and trust, and running together in hope toward the Risen Lord.
One insight resonated deeply throughout the day: coming together is not only for the sake of mission—it is itself a mission.
Two Leaders, One Vision
The opening session featured addresses from the leaders of both congregations, highlighting the depth of the relationship that has united the OLA and SMA since their beginnings.
Fr. François du Penhoat, Superior General of the SMA, reflected on the long and often complex history shared by the two missionary institutes. Using the image of a couple that has experienced seasons of closeness and distance, he described the current moment as a renewed recognition that they are stronger together.
“This meeting,” he emphasized, “is not born of necessity. It is born of desire and conviction. It marks the opening of a new stage in our relationship.”
Drawing inspiration from the parable of the Prodigal Son, Fr. François spoke of a common journey back to the Father, undertaken not separately but together. He reminded participants that their deepest bond lies in their missionary identity and in the sacrifices made by generations who laboured side by side.
The cemeteries of Lagos, Ibadan, Agoué and other mission stations, he noted, stand as enduring testimonies to lives offered together for the growth of God’s Kingdom.
Sr. Mary T. Barron, Congregational Leader of the OLA Sisters, echoed this vision of shared mission and responsibility. Reflecting on the significance of the triple jubilee, she described anniversaries as more than historical milestones.
“They are invitations,” she said. “They remind us that mission is a gift received, a responsibility shared, and a future entrusted to us.”
She recalled the last joint OLA-SMA gathering in Accra in 2016 and recounted a story that has since become part of the collective memory of both congregations. During an outing, the group’s bus unexpectedly broke down directly in front of a sign that read: ‘Collaboration that Profits.’ The incident generated laughter at the time, but the message endured.
“The collaboration we speak about is not commercial,” she reflected. “It is collaboration that bears fruit, strengthens communion, and enlarges hearts for mission.”
For Sr. Barron, collaboration is not merely a practical strategy but an essential dimension of missionary witness in today’s world. It is part of the authenticity of evangelization itself.
Sharing Experiences Across Continents
The rest of the day was dedicated to presentations from various OLA and SMA Provinces, showcasing practical examples of collaboration in different countries and cultural contexts.
From West Africa to other mission territories, participants shared experiences of working together in pastoral ministry, formation, education, and evangelization. These presentations revealed how a common missionary spirit continues to find expression in diverse settings while remaining rooted in the same founding vision.
The exchanges also created space for honest conversations about contemporary challenges and opportunities facing missionary congregations.
Conclusion
Providentially, the day concluded with the celebration of the Eucharist on the Feast of Saint Justin, the second-century martyr who gave his life in witness to the truth of the Gospel. His example provided a fitting backdrop for a gathering of missionaries renewing their commitment to proclaim that same Gospel in today’s world.
In his homily, Fr. Emmanuel Zinsu, SMA reflected on the shared missionary vocation of the SMA Fathers and OLA Sisters, emphasizing that authentic collaboration in mission is rooted in faith, fraternity, and charity. Drawing from Saint Peter’s teaching, he highlighted the importance of cultivating virtues that lead to genuine love, which is essential for effective evangelization.
Reflecting on the Parable of the Tenants, he reminded participants that mission belongs to God and that missionaries are stewards, called to work together rather than become possessive of ministries or territories.
The gathering was presented as a sign of fidelity to God’s mission, offering an opportunity for re-commitment, mutual enrichment, and deeper collaboration. Inspired by the witness of Saint Justin Martyr.
Participants were encouraged to continue serving Christ with courage and generosity, trusting that their shared efforts will bear lasting fruit for the Church in Africa and beyond.
OLA Communications@2026