The 2024 World Meeting of Societies of Apostolic Life (Misal) opened on Dec. 2 in India, with Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão praising their missionary zeal as “a light in the world, which opens new frontiers.”
The biennial event, running until Dec. 6, coincided with the feast day and exposition of the sacred relics of St. Francis Xavier, the patron saint of missions, according to a report by AsiaNews.
In his inaugural address, Cardinal Ferrão, Archbishop of Goa and Daman, highlighted the “essential role” these societies play in the Church’s evangelizing mission and their ability to inspire the Church to embrace its “synodal path with greater inclusiveness, creativity, and a renewed commitment to the mission.”
The cardinal praised their dedication to works such as evangelization, education, healthcare, and social justice, noting that they respond to modern challenges with “flexibility and dynamism.” He added, “You often work in areas where the presence of the Church is most needed.”
The event brings together prominent figures, including Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, pro-prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization, and Msgr. Leopoldo Girelli, Apostolic Nuncio to India and Nepal.
Representatives of the Pontifical Institute for Foreign Missions (PIME), including Superior General Fr. Ferruccio Brambillasca, are also in attendance.
The Society of the Pilar (Missionaries of St. Francis Xavier), hosts of this year’s summit, were commended for continuing Goa’s rich missionary legacy.
“Today, the Society of the Missionaries of St. Francis Xavier, known as the Pilar Fathers, carries forward this flame, engaging in relevant and fruitful missionary activities both in the East and in the West,” Cardinal Ferrão remarked.
Cardinal Tagle addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of exploring new “frontiers” in evangelization and drawing on Jesus as a model of crossing boundaries to “foster appreciation.”
In his homily during a Mass celebrating the feast of St. Francis Xavier, he reflected on the role of the “messenger” in Scripture.
“The angels, prophets, and apostles are shining examples of messengers of God,” he said, pointing to Jesus as “the supreme messenger of the Father.” He concluded by urging participants to look to St. Francis Xavier as “an inspiration and model in being a messenger of the Good News.”
The meeting, themed “Traveling Together: Meeting New Frontiers,” has attracted leaders from 22 Societies of Apostolic Life worldwide.
Participants will engage in strategic discussions from December 4 to 6, led by theologian Felix Wilfred, focusing on identifying new mission frontiers, refining mission processes, and enhancing organizational support.
The event aims to foster unity and collaboration while charting innovative ways to bring Christ’s message to all corners of the world.
