To the delegates of the 41st General Assembly of the Congregation of the Mission:
Dear Confreres, May the grace and peace of Our Lord Jesus Christ fill your hearts now and forever!
One can read of Vincent’s great joy at reporting on the work of the confreres to his local community, or his warm welcome of those who had been carrying on the mission in distant places. He loved to be with the confreres and to hear their stories and their striving to make the Gospel better known to the poor both in word and action. And he loved to offer his encouragement.
From June 28-July 16, 2010, many of us will know that joy and have the opportunity to offer that encouragement to one another as we gather for the 41st General Assembly of the Congregation in Paris, France. How appropriate that we will have this gathering during the 350th Anniversary of the deaths of St. Vincent and St. Louise in that city which they loved!
For almost two years we have been preparing for this Assembly. Our motto (“350 Years and Beyond—the Mission Continues”) has reminded us of our journey; our theme (“Faithful to the gospel…attentive to the signs of the times…open up new ways and use new means…remain in a continual state of renewal”), drawn from our Constitutions, has kept us attentive to our direction.
Among the items in this mailing is a “Consultation Document” which reflects your input in the preparation for this Assembly in light of our goal of “Creative Fidelity to the Mission.” As the document itself states, its purpose is “to stimulate the reflection, the research, and the study which each member of the Assembly is called to make before and during the Assembly itself.” I ask that you give special attention to this material and come to the Assembly prepared to listen and speak on that which is most important for our mission and ministry. Open and respectful dialogue aimed at moving hearts and hands will characterize this Assembly.
A most important preparation for this Assembly will be prayer. Please keep our gathering in mind as you approach the Lord in these coming months. Let us ask that God’s Holy Spirit may enliven us and help us to respond faithfully to the divine will. And, as always, we ask for the intercession of Mary, our blessed mother, and of St. Vincent and St. Louise on our behalf.
Your brother in Saint Vincent,
G. Gregory Gay, C.M.
Superior General