The Holy Father, Pope Francis has written a message of congratulations to the Consolata missionaries who are holding their XIV General Chapter in Rome, Italy. In a message addressed to the former Superior General, Fr Stefano Camerlengo, the Holy Father said that he was happy to send his greetings to the chapter delegates “hoping that the important event will revive in each one resolutions of faithful adherence to Christ and joyful appreciation of fraternal life in community”.
In the letter dated June 12, Pope Francis encouraged the chapter delegates to identify with spiritual and pastoral paths and to continue the mission of the Congregation with renewed enthusiasm, according to the charism of the Founder, Blessed Giuseppe Allamano. He implored the Consolata Missionaries to maintain their desire to spread everywhere, especially in existential peripheries, the light life-giving of the Gospel.
In his message, the Holy Father also congratulated the Consolata missionaries for the service they provide to the Church of Christ. He prayed for the strength of the Holy Spirit for all the members of the XIV General Chapter putting them under the protection and care of the Virgin Mary the Comforter (Consolata).
During the chapter, the delegates elected Fr James Bhola Lengarin, as the Superior General for the next six years. Fr Lengarin becomes the first African to be elected to this high office. Fr Michelangelo Piovano, was elected the Vice General Superior; Frs Owuor Mathews Odhiambo, Juan Pablo De los Ríos Ramírez and Erasto Colnel Mgalama were elected councilors.
The Consolata missionaries were founded 122 years ago by Blessed Joseph Allamano. The congregation has a total of 905 members from 30 countries. The missionaries are currently working in Africa, America, Asia and Europe.