The SMA–OLA Family joyfully prepares to embark on a pilgrimage to their roots, an important journey of thanksgiving and communion, as they celebrate the grace of Mission.
From 23 to 28 July 2026, members of the SMA–OLA Family will gather in Lyon and Chémy, France, to walk in the footsteps of their missionary heritage and celebrate the rich history that unites them for the proclamation of the Gospel.
This special pilgrimage marks three important milestones:
• 170 Years of the Society of African Missions (SMA)
• 150 Years of the Sisters of Our Lady of Apostles (OLA)
• 200 Years since the Birth of Fr. Augustine Planque, SMA — Founder of the Sisters of Our Lady of Apostles and First Superior General of the Society of African Missions.
Going to Lyon and Chémy is an opportunity to return to the spiritual and historical roots of the SMA–OLA Family. It is a moment to give thanks for the missionary journey that began through the inspiration, audacity, courage, and sacrifice of their founders, whose vision continues to animate the mission of both Institutes today.
The history of the SMA and OLA is deeply intertwined. Inspired by the missionary zeal of Bishop Melchior de Marion Brésillac, Founder of the Society of African Missions, and carried forward by Fr. Augustine Planque, SMA, his successor and the founder of the Sisters of Our Lady of Apostles, this shared heritage has continued to bear fruit across continents.
The pilgrimage will lead participants to places that hold deep significance for the Family, especially Lyon, where the missionary vision of the Society of African Missions was nurtured, and Chémy, the birthplace of Fr. Augustine Planque, whose life and ministry played a decisive role in the foundation of the OLA Sisters and the growth of the SMA mission.
They celebrate this Triple Jubilee, rejoicing in the grace of a shared identity:
Two Founders – One Vision – One Mission – Two Institutes
More than a historical commemoration, this Jubilee pilgrimage is a spiritual journey. It invites all members of the SMA–OLA Family to rediscover the passion of their founders, strengthen bonds of togetherness, and renew their commitment to proclaiming the Gospel in today’s world.
United by a common missionary heritage, they continue to respond to the call of the Church with faith, courage, and hope.
The Jubilee theme expresses this shared missionary commitment:
“Together, Let Us Proclaim the Good News”
As they prepare to journey to their roots in Lyon and Chémy, the Family gives thanks for the grace of the past, celebrates the blessings of the present, and looks forward with renewed enthusiasm to the future of mission.
