After ample time of preparation for the workshop, we finally begin the first day of the FIC Core Leadership Workshop on 12 October 2025. The workshop is organised by the FIC General Council at Onder de Bogen, the Mother House of the Sisters of Carolus Boromeus in Maastricht.

The programme today began with coffee and refreshments for the guests from the Religious House of the Netherlands and the participants of the FIC Core Leadership workshop. A friendly and brotherly atmosphere was felt during the coffee break and during the introduction of the participants.

The participants in the FIC Core Leadership workshop include 23 Brothers from various countries: 4 from Indonesia, 5 from Malawi, one from Chile, four from Ghana, three from the Nederland, three from the General Councils, 1 Executive Secretary of the General Council, and 1 General Bursar. The Superior General, Brother Augustine, was unable to attend due to health reasons.

The Eucharistic celebration, presided over by Father Charles, FMM, marked the opening of the FIC Core Leadership Workshop. Around 35 people attended the Holy Mass. In his homily, Father Charles emphasised several points about the upcoming events we will experience. The FIC Core Leadership Workshop is a time to discern together how to lead the Congregation, following the example of the Founder, Mgr. Louis Rutten, and Bro. Bernardus Hoecken. Their examples serve as a reminder that leadership among brothers is not about being above others, but about walking alongside them — listening, humbly and gratefully.

Father Charles continues his homily, noting that a grateful leader listens, serves, and builds community. He recognises God’s grace in the lives of his brothers. He does not say, “Look what I have done,” but rather, “Look what God has done among us.”

We are called to rekindle that same spirit. To lead with gratitude rather than control. To inspire through faith, not fear. To support one another as fellow travellers on the same journey, for we are meant to be a Brother to All.

May the journey through this workshop help all the participants deepen the spirit of leadership, in accordance with the example of Mgr. Louis Rutten and Brother Bernardus Hoeken. May these coming days be a time to walk together with grateful hearts and faithful spirits. May our lives say, not just with words, but with action: “Thank You, Lord, for all You have done.” Amen.

God bless us all.