A Daring and invigorating presence in Quebec

“Be a meaningful, daring, life-giving and hope-bringing presence to those living in situations of hardship, isolation or in search of a path to meaningful living and liberation.” 

After several sessions of listening and collaboration, this statement of shared vision resonates strongly for the SME mission in Quebec. 

On August 24, 2024, a team day reflection was led by Hubert Mposo Makwanda, an expert in facilitating organizational transformations, conducted a team day reflection. Martine Sanfaçon, Yves Bédard (associate missionaries), Bernard Duquette pmé, Juan Ramón Moncada pmé and Pedro Perna (resident affiliate at Maison Bon Air) gathered to evaluate and plan the next stage of the mission. Pedro Emilio Ramírez pmé, head of Missionary Animation, was also present at the meeting.

An extended group of approximately twelve individuals, including priests on the field in Quebec, former missionary associates residing in Quebec, and people who identify with the mission and spirituality of the SME, met beforehand to think, dialogue and discern the direction of this mission.

Once the common vision statement is consolidated, priority actions and the next steps to take were added. Since July 2023, a period of exploration has taken place according to the three orientations retained by the 2023 General Assembly of the SMÉ: immigration, justice and peace, ecology. Participants at the meeting also pointed out the importance of reflecting on innovation and vocations in the future. 

A three-stage approach was agreed upon: exploration (2023-2024), experimentation (2024-2025) and consolidation (2025-2026). At the end of this first stage of exploration, it's time to make choices and move on to the second stage of experimentation. Here are the three primary axes that the core group will develop in collaboration with the extended network: 

1. Small group meetings for fraternal experiences 
2. Renewal meetings on faith and mission
3. Gatherings for all members of the extended network, featuring inspiring speakers, to energize our commitments and strengthen our solidarity. 

It's a year full of promises, in which each person can contribute to the common good, while incarnating a daring and invigorating presence. Together, we will build a path of hope and commitment!