The upcoming global gathering of the Missionary Societies of Apostolic Life (MISAL) to be held in Pilar, Goa, from 2-6 December 2024, marks a moment of great significance for the Church’s future mission. Hosted by the Society of the Missionaries of St Francis Xavier (SFX), commonly known as Society of Pilar, this unique event brings together the Superiors of MISAL from around the world to reflect on their shared missionary journey. I feel privileged to offer some insights into the distinctive identity of the MISAL and roles they play in advancing the Church’s mission, a legacy they have nurtured for over 350 years.
Unique Identity of MISAL
The identity of MISAL is deeply rooted in their unique apostolic calling, particularly their focus on mission ad gentes—the mission to non-Christian territories. Unlike religious orders that bind themselves with solemn vows, the MISAL, juridically belonging to Societies of Apostolic Life (SAL), emphasize their active engagement in apostolic work without requiring such vows. This flexibility allows MISAL members to fully dedicate themselves to their missionary apostolates, living a life that mirrors the work of the Apostles. The mission of the MISAL is to carry forth the work of the Apostles through various apostolates, and community life is required, only if that is vital for the needs of the apostolate.
Their commitment to apostolates is the path to their sanctification, as they strive for perfection in charity, in accordance with their constitutions. This distinctive combination of apostolic work, common life, and the absence of religious vows sets the MISAL apart from both Institutes of Consecrated Life (ICL) and diocesan clergy, although they share certain characteristics with both.
Legacy of Missionary Pioneers
The history of MISAL is one of courageous missionary pioneering. The first of these societies, the Société des Missions étrangères de Paris (MEP), was founded in 1660 to support the missionary efforts of the Church, particularly in Asia. Following the success of MEP, the Propaganda Fide encouraged the creation of more Missionary Societies, primarily to separate the Church’s evangelization efforts from colonial associations. Many Missionary Societies were formed after the MEP model in the later centuries, each dedicated to preaching the Gospel and establishing new local churches in non-Christian lands. There are 24 MISAL in the Church today, 16 of which were founded in the 20th century. MISAL’s unique charism is in their role as pioneers of evangelization—once they establish a community and structure in one region, they move to where the need is greater, embodying the spirit of continual missionary outreach.
Significance of the Global Meet
This global meet of the MISAL, the first since the Vatican Curia’s reorganization under Praedicate Evangelium in 2022, comes at a critical juncture. While the Dicastery for Evangelization is ranked first among all the dicasteries, the MISAL are administered by the Dicastery for the ICL and the SAL. Coming at a time when many MISAL societies face challenges of shrinking resources and fewer personnel, particularly in their traditional bases in Europe and North America, this meeting is vital.
While some of the older Societies experience decline, some others are expanding into new territories, recruiting missionaries from their countries of apostolates, and involving lay missionaries as collaborators. Despite these challenges, their commitment to mission ad gentes remains unwavering. MISAL members continue to work in some of the most remote and difficult places, often at great personal sacrifice, living out the mission of the Gospel with courage and dedication.
MISAL for Mission Forward
The Goa gathering is not just an opportunity to celebrate the rich legacy of the MISAL but a chance to chart a bold path forward. The event will foster collaboration and develop innovative approaches to contemporary missionary challenges. As the Church grapples with growing secularism and declining vocations to consecrated life, the role of the MISAL in renewing the missionary spirit and building bridges across cultures is more vital than ever.
The legacy of MISAL is one of courage, adaptability and an unyielding commitment to mission. As they meet in Goa, the MISAL will not only reflect on their past accomplishments but also seek to inspire new waves of evangelization, ensuring that the light of Christ continues to shine brightly in every corner of the world.