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Awakening to JPIC: A Grace‑Filled Beginning in Togbè

Awakening to JPIC: A Grace‑Filled Beginning in Togbè The morning light over Togbè carried a quiet promise as OLA Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation (JPIC) coordinators from across the Institute gathered at the Daughters of the Sacred Heart Centre for what would mark the beginning of an eleven‑day journey of reflection, formation, and renewed missionary purpose. From 10–22 August 2026, Benin becomes the meeting point of hearts and commitments, a place where Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation are not only discussed but lived. The first day opened with a prayer that set the tone for the entire session—simple, intentional, and beautifully prepared by the JPIC organising team. It was more than a liturgical moment; it was an invitation to breathe together, to recognise the Spirit already at work among us. What followed was a warm exercise in encounter: each participant paired with a sister she had never met before, sharing stories, hopes, and the quiet motivations that brought her to this mission. A Call to Responsibility and Vision The Province of Benin, represented by Sr. Nicole Houinato, Provincial Assistant, offered the first official welcome. Her words were both grounding and prophetic. She reminded the coordinators that JPIC is not an abstract ideal but a concrete responsibility—one that demands awareness, involvement, and courage. Drawing from Pope Francis’ Laudato Si’ (common good) and its insistence on intergenerational justice, she posed the question that would echo throughout the day: What kind of world are we preparing for those who will come [...]

Lille: Where the Story of Father Planque Comes Alive

Lille: Where the Story of Father Planque Comes Alive Lille, France – 25 July 2026 — The Triple Jubilee pilgrimage took the OLA Sisters and SMA Fathers to Lille, where history and mission came together in a particularly meaningful way. At the heart of the day was the celebration of the Eucharist at the Cathedral of Notre-Dame de la Treille, a place closely connected with the early life of Father Augustin Planque. The Mass was presided over by Fr. Romuald Carton, Vicar General of the Diocese of Lille. For the pilgrims, celebrating the Eucharist in this historic setting was an opportunity to pause and reflect on the missionary journey that began with the founders of the Society of African Missions and the Sisters of Our Lady of the Apostles. Father Planque’s connection with Lille gave the celebration a personal dimension. As a young man, he taught in the area around the cathedral. Walking through a place where he had once lived and worked allowed the pilgrims to encounter a part of his story in a very tangible way. During his homily, Father Carton reflected on the parable of the sower from the Gospel of Matthew. He invited the congregation to consider the place given to God’s Word in their own lives. The Word, he reminded the pilgrims, is continually sown; what matters is whether we allow it to take root and bear fruit. His reflection also touched on the spiritual search taking place in the Church in France today, particularly [...]

Bound by Mission: SMA-OLA Pilgrims Gather Where Their Story Began

Bound by Mission: SMA-OLA Pilgrims Gather Where Their Story Began The pilgrimage began not with fanfare, but with the quiet hum of a bus pulling away from Lyon at dawn. Inside, as the countryside unfurled in soft morning light, voices rose in prayer. Lauds became the soundtrack of the road — a reminder that even movement can be a form of contemplation. They were heading north, toward Lille, toward the Church of Saint Catherine, where the young Augustine Planque once prayed, dreamed, and discerned. For the 120 pilgrims of the Society of African Missions and the Sisters of Our Lady of Apostles, this was not simply a stop on an itinerary. It was a return to origins. A Parish That Remembers When the buses finally arrived, the group stepped into the parish that had quietly shaped one of their founders. Mass was celebrated by Fr. Augustine Placide Houessinon, Provincial Superior of the SMA in Lyon, whose calm presence set the tone for the day. Sr. Victoria Zirra, OLA Provincial Leader of France, welcomed the pilgrims with warmth that felt almost familial. She spoke of hope — that these days would rekindle prayer, deepen togetherness, and breathe fresh life into the missionary charism shared by SMA and OLA. A Jubilee of Grace During the homily, Father Augustine invited everyone to pause and consider the meaning of the Jubilee year unfolding between May 2025 and December 2026. A jubilee, he said, is not merely a milestone; it is a grace-filled interruption — [...]