Fr. Elvis Fernandes, SFX –
The Society of Pilar is set to host the Meeting of the International Societies of Apostolic Life (MISAL) 2024, a significant global gathering scheduled from December 2 to December 6, 2024, at the Pilar Pilgrim Centre in Goa, India. This event marks a pivotal moment for the Society, which was founded on September 26, 1887, by Rev. Fr. Bento Martins, and aims to foster unity among approximately twenty-two Societies of Apostolic Life (SAL) worldwide.
The theme for MISAL 2024 is “Journeying Together: Encountering New Frontiers,” reflecting a commitment to addressing contemporary challenges while exploring innovative outreach methods. The summit will serve as a platform for SAL members to strengthen their collaboration and enhance their mission of spreading the message of Jesus globally13.
The event will feature prominent figures in the Catholic Church, including His Eminence Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle, Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization, and Archbishop Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrao of Goa. Their participation underscores the importance of this gathering, which coincides with the Exposition of the Sacred Relics of St. Francis Xavier, the Patron of Missions23.
The opening day will begin with a keynote address by Cardinal Tagle, followed by a Q&A session moderated by Rt. Rev. Sebastiao Mascarenhas, Bishop of Baroda. The first day will also include a public reception honoring delegates and dignitaries, featuring cultural performances that celebrate the Society’s history13.
On December 3, delegates will attend a Solemn Feast Mass at the Basilica of Bom Jesus, led by Cardinal Tagle. Prior to this, they will visit the Se Cathedral to venerate St. Francis Xavier’s relics, seeking divine guidance for their missionary efforts13.
From December 4 to 6, the focus will shift to strategic discussions facilitated by renowned theologian Dr. Felix Wilfred. These sessions aim to identify new mission frontiers and propose organizational support strategies for ongoing evangelization efforts. The culmination of these discussions will be a unified vision and mission statement that encapsulates SAL members’ collective aspirations.
Fr. Elvis Fernandes, SFX is a Counselling Psychologist (Clinical), PhD and Editor of Fr. Agnel’s Call – a mission and youth magazine and also a Convener at Sadbhav – an Interfaith Initiative, besides being the director at Pilar Media at Goa.