July 21, 2023
The inaugural Inter-Obediential Missionary Course in Asia concluded today, July 28th, at The House of Silence in Busay City, Philippines. The two-month course was focused on the theme "Sent in Asia to Strengthen Our Missions as Lesser Brothers in the Spirit of the Franciscan Jubilee and Synodality."
The course was inaugurated by Fra Carlos Trovarelli, OFMConv., on behalf of the Franciscan Ministers General. It was attended by 17 missionary friars from the the OFM, OFMConv., OFM Cap., and the TOR, coming from Indonesia, India, Vietnam, USA, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and Philippines. Among the participants were Fra Prince Joseph Illinilkumthadathil, OFMConv., and Fra Justin Thomas Puthenveettil, OFMConv., both from India and missionaries to Sri Lanka and Fra Maximilian Ma. Bumacod, OFMConv., assistant Novice formator from the Philippines with Fra Uriel Ma. Santos, OFMConv., as one of the three missionary course animators.
The event concluded with a Eucharistic Celebration led by Fra Lino Gregorio Redoblado, OFM, President of the East Asian Conference. Fra Renee Dean, OFM, Provincial Minister of the Province of St. Anthony of Padua Cebu, Philippines, also participated as a concelebrant. At the closing ceremony, the friars received certificates of completion and the IMCA 2023 publication as part of their recognition.
It was indeed a journey of celebrating the inter-obediential and inter-cultural diversity, aimed at nurturing holistic growth and fostering collaboration. This path has led participants to evolve into an enhanced version of themselves as dedicated men of mission, marked by profound discernment and unwavering commitment to their missionary calling.
The friars of the IMCA 2023 Batch, aptly named "Mirror of Grace," stand prepared to embark on their forthcoming missionary endeavors across the expansive horizons of Asia and Oceania.
Author
Fra Maximilian Bumacod, OFMConv.
