Major Superiors in Southern Africa Renew Mission and Unity at Assembly in Angola
Leaders of consecrated religious life from across Southern Africa have concluded a significant regional gathering in Angola, reaffirming their shared commitment to unity, mission, and collaboration with the local Church. The Second General Assembly of the Regional Conference of Major Superiors of Southern Africa brought together consecrated men and women for several days of prayer, dialogue, and reflection on the future of religious life in the region.
Held from 28 January to 2 February 2026 in Luanda, the assembly welcomed 28 delegates representing nine countries of Southern Africa. The meeting took place at the national Marian shrine of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Muxima, affectionately known as Mama Muxima, a site deeply rooted in the spiritual life of the Angolan people. The gathering was held under the theme Consecrated Life United for Mission.
The assembly was presided over by Fr Jose Joaquim Luís Pedro, the outgoing president of the Regional Conference, and was accompanied by Bishop Leopoldo Ndakalako of the Diocese of Menongue. Bishop Ndakalako serves as the liaison bishop for consecrated life in Angola under the auspices of the Episcopal Conference of Angola and São Tomé.
Participants described the gathering as a moment of grace marked by prayerful discernment and deep communion. Sr Nkhensani Shibambo, Secretary General of the Regional Conference and a member of the Companions of St Angela in South Africa, said the assembly offered a valuable space to reflect on the shared mission of consecrated persons in Southern Africa. She noted that the experience strengthened a sense of walking together in hope while responding to the realities facing the region.
The strong ecclesial character of the assembly was reflected in its liturgical celebrations. The opening Mass was presided over by Bishop Ndakalako, while the Sunday Eucharist was led by the Apostolic Nuncio to Angola, Archbishop Kryspin Witold Dubiel, alongside bishops and archbishops from across the country. These celebrations were seen as visible signs of communion between consecrated life and the local Church.
Beyond prayer and worship, the delegates engaged in honest discussions about the social and pastoral challenges affecting Southern Africa. Issues such as poverty, inequality, migration, human trafficking, and ecological concerns were examined, alongside internal challenges facing religious life. These included formation of new members, long term sustainability, leadership development, and care for the physical and spiritual well being of consecrated persons.
At the conclusion of the assembly, members adopted a series of resolutions aimed at strengthening collaboration, promoting safeguarding, supporting care for creation, and enhancing formation and leadership structures. The importance of responsibility and mutual support within consecrated communities was repeatedly emphasized.
The gathering concluded on the World Day for Consecrated Life, underscoring the commitment of religious men and women to walk closely with the Church and society. Participants returned to their countries with a renewed sense of mission, grounded in faith and strengthened by regional solidarity.
