Makuyu (Kenya). From 16 to 20 January 2025, the CIAM Triennial Verification of the Inter-provincial Conference of Africa and Madagascar took place in Makuyu, Nairobi, at the House of St. Mary D. Mazzarello of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians of Our Lady of Hope Province (AFE).
The meeting was attended by the Superior General of the Institute of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, Mother Chiara Cazzuola, and some General Councilors – Sister Chantal Mukase, CIAM Referent; Sister Nilza Fátima de Moraes, Sister Ruth del Pilar Mora, Sister Marta Riccioli, Sister Paola Battagliola, Sister Celine Jacob, as well as the Provincials of Africa and Madagascar, the FMA delegates, and the laity.
On 16 January in a joyful and hopeful atmosphere, the day opened with Lauds and the Eucharistic Celebration. After the greetings of Sister Yvette Badini, Provincial of Mother of God Province (AFO) and President of CIAM; of Sister Agnès Ngosa Mambwe, AFE Provincial; and of Sister Chantal Mukase, Visiting Councilor for Africa; Mother General, Sister Chiara Cazzuola, spoke to encourage listening and reflection on the common path. After an introduction on the methodology inspired by the Synod of Bishops, the participants worked in groups, encouraging listening and sharing of different experiences. The translation helped to overcome language barriers. The day ended with Vespers, followed by a time of recreation. This first day marked the beginning of a collective co-creation, with an important role for the laity and good prospects for the following days.
On 17 January, the second day of the Verifica, the reflections focused on “A presence that walks with” and “A presence in out-reach and networked”. Mother Chiara opened the session by speaking of the importance of synodality, not only as an organizational process, but also as a means to strengthen bonds in the mission. The fundamental role of Salesian assistance was reaffirmed, emphasizing the collective responsibility in the education of young people and vulnerable persons. The groups discussed their presence in and out of the network, converging towards a vision of co-responsibility and openness to the world. The day ended with a time of prayer and a recreational evening, which consolidated the fraternity among the participants, as well as sharing initiatives related to the objectives of Laudato Si’.
On 18 January, after the Mass presided by Fr. Felice Molino, Salesian of Don Bosco that focused on Marian devotion, participants experienced a community trip to Nairobi, where they were able to visit the Shrine of Mary Help of Christians with the urn of Don Bosco, a gift offered to Africa by Fr. Pascual Chávez, Rector Major emeritus, after having toured the world on the occasion of the bicentenary of the birth of Don Bosco (1815-2015). The group also visited the National Museum, a treasure trove of Kenyan culture. Back at the Provincial House, Sister Nilza Fatima de Morales presented an update of the Plan of Formation related to the Beatitudes, encouraging group reflection. Mother General then shared news about the Institute and announced that the Feast of Gratitude, on 26 April will be held in Vietnam. The day ended with a prayer led by St. John Bosco Province (MOZ) in Mozambique.
On 19 January, during the Eucharistic Celebration, some symbols of life and commitment were presented. The main theme is the care of the common home, in the face of current challenges such as pollution and global warming. Mother highlighted three attitudes that cause social problems: arrogance, apathy, and greed, calling for concrete actions to save the planet. The concept of “ecological spirituality” was also deepened, encouraging change through the action of the Holy Spirit.
The afternoon was devoted to the protection of minors and vulnerable people, highlighting the importance of protecting the most fragile. The day ended with presentations of some FMA missions in the Provinces and an explanation of the logo of the 150th of the first missionary expedition,encouraging a common responsibility for a more compassionate world.
The fifth and last day of the Verifica began with a symbolic procession of gratitude to the Lord for this experience. Mother Chiara shared reflections on the future of the charism in Africa, followed by group discussions on the themes for the next General Chapter, while the lay people shared their thoughts regarding collaboration with the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians. Their work was summarized and approved, and the day ended with various thank yous and the closing Eucharistic Celebration presided by Fr. Felice.
The CIAM Verifica ended with a festive evening with performances of the Provinces and the Goodnight of Mother, who recalled the importance of “always finding ourselves in the heart of Jesus”, as Mother Mazzarello said.
Photos: Flickr FMA
