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Official Publication of the SMA-OLA Triple Jubilee Celebration Logo

Official Publication of the SMA-OLA Triple Jubilee Celebration Logo Dear Friends, As we embark on a momentous year of thanksgiving and reflection, we are delighted to introduce the official logo for our Jubilee Celebration. This logo represents a historic triple milestone in our journey of faith and mission: ✨ 150 Years of the Foundation of the Sisters of Our Lady of Apostles (OLA) ✨ 170 Years of the Foundation of the Society of African Missions (SMA) ✨ 200 Years since the birth of Fr. Augustine Planque, OLA Founder and First SMA Superior General This Jubilee is a time of gratitude and recommitment to our mission of spreading the Gospel and serving humanity. The logo embodies the spirit of our Institutes’ heritage, union, and commitment to God’s work. You are cordially invited to the Opening Ceremonies of our year-long celebration in OUIDAH(Bénin), where we will officially commence this journey of joy and thanksgiving together. Let us rejoice in our shared history and walk forward in faith! More details on the opening event will be shared later. For more information, kindly contact the Jubilee Planning Commission through this Email: smaolandajubilee@gmail.com

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OLA Sisters Advocating Against Human Trafficking: A Call to Action

Advocating Against Human Trafficking: A Call to Action Every year on February 8, the world observes the World Day Against Human Trafficking, a moment to reflect on the grim reality of modern slavery that continues to affect millions across the globe. This day, particularly significant for the Sisters of Our Lady of Apostles (OLA) in Italy, serves as a call to action, raising awareness and advocating for the rights and dignity of women and children most vulnerable to exploitation. A powerful video produced by the OLA Sisters in Italy sheds light on this urgent issue, drawing inspiration from the life of Saint Josephine Bakhita. Born in Sudan, Bakhita was abducted as a child and endured years of unimaginable suffering in slavery. However, her story did not end in despair. She later found freedom, dedicated her life to God, and became a beacon of hope for many. In 2000, she was canonized as a saint and declared the patroness of human trafficking victims, a powerful symbol of resilience and transformation. The video not only recounts Bakhita’s moving story but also highlights the tireless efforts of religious communities in championing the rights of the oppressed. Through prayer, advocacy, and direct support, these communities work to combat human trafficking and restore dignity to survivors. Volunteers in Italy share their personal experiences of engaging with those who have suffered from trafficking, emphasizing the importance of building relationships rooted in trust, support, and hope. The fight against human trafficking requires collective action. It is a [...]

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Lent: A Time of Spiritual Renewal

                                                      Lent: A Time of Spiritual Renewal Lent is an essential period in the Christian tradition, marked by prayer, fasting, and sharing. It lasts for 40 days, beginning on Ash Wednesday and ending on the eve of Easter. This duration recalls the 40 days that Jesus Christ spent in the desert, engaging in prayer and fasting to prepare for his mission. This period invites every Christian to embark on a deep spiritual journey. Lent is a time of inner conversion, an opportunity to draw closer to God and renew one’s faith. Through fasting, believers learn to detach from material pleasures and focus on what is essential. It is not merely a deprivation, but an act of freedom and self-discipline. Prayer also plays a central role during Lent. It strengthens one’s relationship with God, encourages meditation on His word, and opens the heart to His presence. This is a privileged moment to reflect on one’s life and seek divine guidance in daily choices. Sharing or almsgiving is another fundamental aspect of Lent. It encourages solidarity with the less fortunate, reflecting Christ’s love for humanity. Christians express their commitment to living according to the Gospel by giving to others. Lent is therefore a journey of purification and reconciliation. It invites believers to free themselves from sin, practice humility, and seek forgiveness. It is an opportunity to [...]

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