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February 21, 2024During a virtual Zoom meeting on Sunday, February 4, 2024, Superior General Fr. Rogério Gomes, CSsR, participated in an ongoing formation session for the Lay Missionaries of the Most Holy Redeemer and professed Redemptorists from the various Provinces of the North America Conference. The presentation, titled “The Redemptorist Family: Aspirations, Visions, Challenges, and the Paths Ahead,” began with a definition of the Redemptorist Family. Fr. Rogério underscored it as a charismatic, spiritual, and missionary union that encompasses the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, the Order of the Most Holy Redeemer, and Partners in Mission, all bound together by a shared charism.
Fr. Rogério noted that the concept of the Redemptorist Family is a relatively new development, but is growing in significance, particularly due to recent General Chapters focusing on “re-imagination.” He emphasized the importance of acknowledging that unity in common projects is essential to avoid becoming a voice lost in the world’s desert. “Being agents of the mission means recognizing that we are not alone, that we are called to a common vision, the Kingdom of God, that we are called to solidarity with each other and with the poor and wounded of our world.”
Acknowledging the obstacles presented by a world marked by social inequality, violence, and war, Fr. Rogério questioned the essence of the hope that we possess and preach, emphasizing the need to create new opportunities in a reality frequently obscured by despair. He urged our Redemptorist Family to become a missionary body, sharing in mission and dreaming with creative fidelity. “It is witnessing the Gospel in a fragmented society. It means putting our personal and institutional limits and gifts on the table. It means engaging in dialogue and looking for new ways to serve evangelization, taking into account everyone and the principle of harmony. Harmony is a gift of the Spirit. It doesn’t make people uniform, but it makes symphony possible.”
Before graciously addressing several queries from participants, Fr. Rogério recognized the existing challenges both within and outside the Redemptorist Family. He suggested potential paths forward, such as deepening the understanding of the Redemptorist charism, promoting collaboration, and improving communication within the family. To read Fr. Rogério’s reflection, The Redemptorist Family: Hopes, Dreams, Challenges and the Paths to be Followed, in its entirety, please go to Fr. Rogério’s Reflection.
With deepest gratitude, we extend our appreciation to Fr. Rogério. May his words inspire us to continue our journeying together as missionaries of hope, navigating challenges hand in hand, and realizing the dreams of a shared mission.
Lucy Burich McNamara
Lay Missionary of the Most Holy Redeemer, Baltimore Province