Missionaries of Africa (White Fathers)
In 1868, when Cardinal Charles Lavigerie, Archbishop of Algiers, founded the Missionaries of Africa, such was the dream that dwelt in him that he sent witnesses of the Gospel to the depths of the African continent.
Sustained by Ignatian spirituality, we discern the presence and action of God at the heart of our lives and our apostolate. Priests or Brothers, we live in international communities of at least three members. We are present in 46 countries, including 26 countries of Africa. The Society currently has close to 1,100 members, including 465 from Africa. Our Generalate is in Rome. Most of the Formation Centres (25) are all in Africa, but also in Asia, America, and Europe. We have 470 students (see our statistics).
What drives us is becoming close to people and going out to meet others, whatever their origin or religion. We pay particular attention to believers in Islam. We are involved in various apostolates: parishes, Social Action, Interreligious Dialogue, Education, Development, commitment to Justice for Peace, and in favour of the Integrity of Creation. In France, we are in parishes entrusted to us, on the outskirts of Marseille and Toulouse.
We feel encouraged by the words addressed to us by Pope Francis: “May your ministry be apparent in practice in your fraternal life and in your various commitments, in fidelity to the love of God and his nearness, in order to plant hope in the hearts of those who are hurt, frustrated, discouraged, and who so often feel abandoned.” Private (Audience 8/02/2019).
Translated by Donald MacLeod M.Afr
