OLA Sisters and SMA Fathers Begin Week of Reflection on Shared Mission During their Triple Jubilee Celebrations
The first day of this significant gathering between the Sisters of Our Lady of Apostles (OLA) and the Society of African Missions (SMA) Fathers commenced in Nigeria in a spirit of gratitude, reflection, and renewed missionary zeal. The meeting forms part of the Triple Jubilee celebrations marking the 150th anniversary of the foundation of the OLA Sisters, the 170th anniversary of the foundation of the Society of African Missions, and the 200th anniversary of the birth of Fr. Augustine Planque, founder of the OLA Sisters.
Bringing together leaders of the two institutes, the gathering provides an opportunity to revisit their shared heritage and discern new paths for missionary collaboration. Inspired by a common commitment to the proclamation of the Gospel and service to God’s people, participants are reflecting on the legacy of their two founders and the challenges and opportunities facing mission today.
The opening sessions focused on the complementary charisms of the OLA Sisters and SMA Fathers. Through presentations, discussions, and prayer, participants explored the historical bonds that unite the two missionary institutes and considered ways of strengthening their partnership in the service of the Church in Africa and beyond.
Throughout the week, they will continue their deliberations and celebrations, sharing experiences from their various missions, identifying common priorities, and deepening their commitment to a shared missionary vision. The exchanges are expected to provide valuable visions for future initiatives and further strengthen the relationship between the two institutes.
This Triple Jubilee celebrations offer a fitting context for this encounter, inviting participants to give thanks for God’s faithfulness throughout their history and to move forward with transformed hope, courage, and enthusiasm for mission.
OLA Communications@2026