A Tapestry of Faith and Culture: SMA–OLA Jubilee Celebration Opens with Rich Interreligious Ceremony
The 2026 Jubilee Celebrations of the SMA and OLA Congregations officially opened yesterday at Fort Français in Ouidah with a joyful and vibrant program. Held under the theme “Towards 2026”, the event drew pilgrims, guests, and delegates worldwide to witness a compelling blend of culture, spirituality, and unity.
The day began with a warm welcoming ceremony that set a gracious tone. Joyful embraces and traditional greetings created an atmosphere of hospitality, immediately immersing participants in the spirit of community. Cultural displays followed, highlighting the deep heritage and global diversity of the two congregations’ shared mission. Songs, dances, and traditional attire celebrated the beauty of interculturality and the universality of the Church’s mission.
As evening fell, a candlelight procession to the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception added a spiritual dimension to the celebration. Participants advanced in reverent song and dance, their candles symbolizing homage to the first missionaries, hope for today’s mission, unity in the SMA–OLA shared mission and the enduring light of faith that continues to guide their work. The flickering lights at twilight formed a living tapestry of solidarity.
The day concluded with an interreligious prayer service, marking a profound moment of unity among diverse faiths. Representatives of various religions offered prayers, readings, and reflections, affirming shared values of peace, justice, and love. This inclusive act of worship underscored the commitment of SMA and OLA to dialogue and mutual understanding in an increasingly pluralistic world.
As the celebrations continue, the opening day is a testimony to the congregations’ lasting legacy and evolving mission—rooted in faith, lived through diversity, and extending across religious and cultural boundaries.
👉 Watch the full event here:
• https://youtube.com/live/mn64zWaXO54
• https://www.youtube.com/live/TJcAsoSrxf8?si=gNdgTzWBWuynZdOP