Keeping the Memories Alive
Between May 18 and 22, 2026, the Meeting of Dehonian Secretaries of Portuguese and Spanish Languages was held. The main objective was to reflect on the importance and beauty of the ministry of secretary in the life of the Congregation, inspired by the example and spirituality of Father Dehon.
The meeting began with an address by the Superior General, Fr. Carlos, who highlighted the essential role of secretaries. He emphasized that “secretaries are the continuators, since the time of Jesus, in the mission of transmitting the message of the Gospel.” Although often arduous and not very visible, this service is fundamental for the continuity of the Congregation’s work around the world.
Throughout the days, strong emphasis was placed on Dehonian spirituality lived in the ministry of secretary. The participants reflected on the need to carry out administrative work with discretion, fidelity, and gratuity. More than a bureaucratic task, the secretary’s service should be seen as a continuation of prayer and a beautiful expression of oblation, that is, total self-giving to God and to the mission of the Congregation.
The meeting addressed several important topics for the good exercise of this function, such as legal issues related to the dismissal of orders and the alienation of assets, the coherent and ongoing formation of secretaries worldwide, the translation of the Rule of Life, and other matters concerning the administration and life of the Entities, as well as the Programmatic Letter.
In addition to the formative moments, there was also room for valuable information, with presentations by the General Councillors, who shared their responsibilities and activities carried out at the international level. One morning was especially dedicated to the beatification processes of members of the Congregation, with particular focus on Fr. Martino Capelli.
One of the highlights was the visit to the Dicastery for Consecrated Life, followed by an emotional trip to the Catacombs of Saint Sebastian, where the participants celebrated a Mass asking for God’s blessings on the ministry of all secretaries and on the entire Congregation.
Every day, the secretaries joined the confreres living at the General House for the liturgies and meals, which created a light, fraternal atmosphere full of positive interactions.
The meeting reinforced that the Dehonian secretary exercises a discreet but indispensable ministry: to care with zeal, love, and competence for the memory, organization, and life of the Congregation, so that the charism of Father Dehon remains alive and fruitful in the Church.
Fr. Antonio Maria Resende, scj
