Dear Reader,

Welcome to the first edition of Volume Three of our congregational magazine, Brothers FIC. The year 2024 marks the beginning of a new chapter in the life of the FIC Congregation. The next six years will be influenced by the recent events that took place in Wa, in the Upper West Region of Ghana, where the FIC Brothers concluded deliberations of their General Chapter held from August 4 to 24, 2024.

The General Chapter — the highest decision-making body of our congregation — offered us the opportunity to evaluate our journey, reflect deeply on our calling, and chart a renewed path forward. Centred on the theme “Renewal of Our Consecrated Life and Mission in the Spirit of Synodality,” the General Chapter culminated in a bold and hopeful agenda for the future. It identified, among others, three key focus areas:

The renewal of our consecrated life, the revitalisation of our mission to the youth, and the promotion of solidarity and collaboration with fellow human beings and the natural world.

As is customary, the Chapter concluded with the election of new congregational leadership and the adoption of resolutions to be implemented across all FIC provinces. As religious brothers, our life of consecration is a sacred pilgrimage—a journey of hope toward more profound union with God. In light of this, we have chosen “Pilgrims of Hope” as the theme of this edition of the Magazine, believing that it will inspire hope as our leaders embark on implementing the chapter resolutions. Counting on the theme of the jubilee year, we intend to inspire hope, not only in our fellow brothers, but also in our collaborators and humanity at large, being aware that embarking on such a journey is not without difficulties and challenges.

We are therefore enthused to share with you the experiences, hopes, and aspirations of both the Provincial Superiors and their deputies as they embark on this journey of service to their fellow brothers and humanity. As usual, the General Superior Bro. Augustine Kubdaar gives a prelude to the theme of the Magazine, followed by a reflection on how we can become pilgrims of hope in the jubilee year, and Bro. Johan Muijtjens writes on the challenge of hope. Mother Mary, being our inspiration, has consistently garnered our attention.  The remaining stories are about FIC's collaboration with other religious bodies and inspirations from the Vatican.

We invite you to journey with us through these pages as we explore, celebrate, and commit ourselves anew to our mission and calling. We thank you for your prayers and support.