Leadership for the Redemptorist mission in a changing era
From September 1st to 4th, the Marianela Multifunctional Center in Atyrá hosted 16 young religious men from Chile, Argentina, and Paraguay, who participated in a meeting of formation, prayer, fraternity, and coexistence.
The meeting’s theme was: “Leadership for the Redemptorist mission in a changing era. Forming leaders who inspire, accompany, and evangelize in the style of Jesus of Nazareth.”
Accompanied by Fr. Miguel Ángel Martínez , the participants reflected on four main themes: the changing times and the Redemptorist mission, the leadership of Jesus, St. Alphonsus as a model of leadership, and the Redemptorist leader of the future. These sessions provided an opportunity to share experiences and delve deeper into the challenges facing the mission today, as well as how to live the Redemptorist vocation with greater closeness and commitment.
The figure of Jesus was central to the reflection as a model of leadership based on service, listening, closeness, and dedication. The life of Saint Alphonsus Liguori was also explored in depth, a man who responded to the needs of his time with creativity and missionary zeal, especially among the most abandoned.
On the first day, Holy Mass was presided over by Fr. Javier Machado CSsR, Provincial Superior, who came to share with the young people the beginning of the meeting and accompanied them in this space of formation, fraternity, and mission.
The program also included time for fellowship and recreation. Visits to the Basilica of Caacupé and the Temple of Yaguarón, the Gaudeamus celebrations, and sporting activities helped strengthen fraternal bonds and share the joy of community life.
The meeting concluded with the celebration of Holy Mass, during which Fr. Miguel Ángel Martínez left three words that summarized the journey: availability, missionary passion and love for Mary, Mother of Perpetual Help.
These were days of encounter and vocational renewal that helped to strengthen fraternity and commitment to the mission, encouraging young people to continue the journey as Missionaries of Hope following in the footsteps of the Redeemer, with availability to serve, passion to proclaim the Gospel and trust in Mary, Mother of Perpetual Help.
Text: Fr. Luís Alvarenga, C.Ss.R.
