Heirs of a missionary legacy
Discover two missions in Mexico rooted in the Vincentian tradition, illuminating faith and hope in urban and rural communities. Stories of commitment and transformation, inspiring us to spread the love of Christ worldwide.
We are getting closer to the 400th anniversary of the Congregation of the Mission. It’s impressive to look back and realize that we are heirs to a history of our brothers who dedicated their lives to God through the poorest.
Many Vincentians chose to leave their homes and lands to embrace the mission to which the Lord called them. Comfort was never an option, and they moved forward without fear of the unknown. Also in these lands, in Mexico, this 2024 marks 180 years since the arrival of the first Vincentians.
Knowing ourselves as heirs to this missionary spirit encourages us not to settle and to go out into villages, neighborhoods, and colonies to evangelize a people thirsty for God. That’s why we wish to second the call of the Father General to “the entire Congregation of the Mission to be on Mission.” We too, from this corner of the world, wish to spread the good news of Christ.
missionary
In the urban heart of Mexico
In the midst of this panorama of faith and commitment, we encounter two intertwined stories that reflect the very essence of the Vincentian mission. From the Parish of María Auxiliadora in the Ramos Millán neighborhood, Mexico City, to the remote village of Santiago Matatlán, Oaxaca, we see how faith is lived and shared in diverse but united contexts by the same purpose: to bring the light of the gospel to every corner of the earth.
In the Ramos Millán neighborhood, the parish community prepares for a Mission that awakens faith and hope amidst urban bustle. Father Juan José Cedeño, parish priest of the place, invited us to carry out the beautiful task of arousing, rekindling, and strengthening the faith of this parish community. For several months, we had to prepare the Popular Mission through the workshop we offer in each experience.
We dedicated ourselves to getting to know the community and blessing the houses in different sectors, taking advantage of these visits to invite all families to the mission. We celebrated the Eucharist, cared for the sick, and initiated family meetings. The mission was challenging, but the generosity of the laity made everything seem simple. Now, in February 2024, we are carrying out the second stage of the mission.
Heirs of a missionary legacy
An inculturated faith
In a very different context is the other mission we wanted to talk about today: in Santiago Matatlán, beauty and cultural richness merge with faith in a Mission that seeks to strengthen the organic pastoral care of the community. Guided by Father Pedro Jiménez Medina, diocesan priest, the missionaries work hand in hand with the locals to consolidate their pastoral commitment and accompany their deep-rooted traditions.
Santiago Matatlán is located in the central valleys of the state of Oaxaca, Mexico. It is a picturesque village whose essence intertwines with the land and its traditions. With a territorial extension of 184.434 square kilometers, it represents 0.18% of the total of the state, being located in the heart of the Central Valleys region and forming part of the Tlacolulan district. Santiago Matatlán stands out as the “World Capital of Mezcal”, being the epicenter of the production of this spirit, so deeply rooted in Mexican culture.
Through workshops, liturgical celebrations, and pastoral actions, we help this unique place to live faith more intensely. We were able to bless families and celebrate Easter with this community. We held workshops and trained animators to encourage the pastoral care of this beautiful region. The mission was undoubtedly a starting point and not a finishing point. Now it’s time to continue building the community.
missions in Mexico
An unlimited vocation
These Mexican stories serve as examples of the missionary and vocational commitment of the entire Vincentian family and its dedication to the evangelization of the most needy. From the urban heart of Mexico City to the rural depths of Oaxaca, these missions embody the call of Saint Vincent de Paul to preach the gospel to the poor.
Amidst the diversity and complexity of these missions, we remember the words of Saint Vincent de Paul: “How happy is the condition of a missionary who has no other limits in his missions than the inhabitable world!”. We are inspired by the courage and commitment of those who came before us, and we commit to following their example, bringing the light of the gospel to every corner of the world we inhabit.
On this 180th anniversary of the arrival of the Vincentians in Mexico, we renew our commitment to be on Mission, following the call of Christ and sharing his love with those who need it most. May the faith, hope, and protection of the Virgin of Guadalupe continue to guide our steps on this path of service and dedication.
Father Ignacio Martínez CM and Filiberto Ruano CM.
missions in Mexico
