In Barquisimeto, the Consolata family gathered to joyfully share the gift of the life of the one who, while still a young priest, arrived at the Shrine of Our Lady of Consolation in Turin. It was there that he understood how Mary Consolata had been the inspiration for his work from the very beginning, and how, in imitation of her “Yes,” his work became consolation for the world.
By Danmari Mujica *
It was she, Our Lady Consolata, who awakened in the heart of Saint Giuseppe Allamano the desire and urgency to make his own what Isaiah proclaims: “They will proclaim my glory among the nations” (66:19). Thanks to the universal Church, this proclamation has reached the most isolated and distant places on earth. One hundred years after his birth into heaven, Saint Giuseppe Allamano continues to be a point of reference for evangelizing work in today’s world.
Sisters, friends, and lay people gathered to share the mission as a life choice, consolation and gift that comes from the Gospel. A consolation that continues to be Good News for all who await it, and for those who recognize the Lord of Life and Allamano as the “treasurer” of Consolation, as he considered himself, pointing to Consolata as the true Foundress.
The centenary celebration at the Missionary Animation Center (CAM) began with a novena animated by the various groups of the center: from the youngest members of the Sister Irene group to the friends of the “Open Hands and Light Feet” group. These two groups attend weekly courses in missionary formation, spirituality, and concrete service to those who live on the streets.
We believe that the best way to celebrate the centenary of the Founder’s death is to share his life. For this reason, the doors are open to welcome curious and restless young people who wish to know God the Father better. It has been an adventure enriched by the testimonies of those who, upon meeting the Consolata missionaries, were captivated by their charism and their response to the vocation they received.
During the weekend, twelve young people – like the disciples – had the opportunity to live together and listen to how Saint Joseph Allamano responded to God’s call. They saw how he embarked on a life of commitment and how he shaped and kept alive the charism of Consolata, which through his missionaries continues to inflame many people with apostolic zeal in different corners of the world.
The Consolata Family is not made up of just a few, but of all those who, aware of their missionary vocation, long for holiness and strive each day to be worthy of this charism. It is present in all those places where missionaries have given their lives for the Gospel, sowing the love of God and sharing the consolation they have received.
The year 2026 is a time to continue celebrating and thanking the Lord for the gifts granted to the Founder – a story that continues and still has much to tell.
* Danmari Mujica, LMC, CAM Barquisimeto, Venezuela.
