It is great joy to note that of the total number of the confreres of our Congregation almost 100 are now present in the various African Missions. That is little less than 10% of the total strength of the Congregation. This number has increased steadily and it is likely to go still high at very rapid manner as possibilities of new missions are very open before us. The standing invitations from various dioceses in different countries in Africa offer us the vast possibilities of diverse forms of missionary apostolate for our Congregation. To the one who has the good will “door is always open”. It is time for us as a Congregation to venture into apostolate in other countries too for example in Malawi, Angola,  Sudan etc. After the “Darfur Tragedy”, Sudan is limping on its way to true freedom and peace. Can we not as a Congregation contribute our mite at this juncture?

The Christian values must enter and take roots in a deeper manner in the hearts of the people. Only that can pave the way for lasting peace and subsequent development in this continent or anywhere for that matter.  If not the genocide epoch of Rwanda and Burundi – in spite of the fact that they are Christian nations – can take place any where and at any time.

It is our humble prayer, that all tribes, cultures and nations grow in peace and harmony in this continent. May the presence of Christian values and genuine human efforts contribute to this effect. May all the Fransalian Missionaries in this continent be able to discern the need of the times for each nation and society and accomplish what is required of them. May the united efforts of all bear fruit in making our world a better place to live! With these prayerful wishes we present the second issue of Out of Africa.