From 19-21 April 2026, the African Cluster of Mill Hill Missionaries gathered at the newly constructed Mill Hill House in Nairobi for its annual meeting. Representatives from Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Uganda, Sudan, and South Africa came together in fraternity to strengthen bonds, share experiences, and discern the way forward in their missionary service.
The meeting opened with prayer and reflection, setting a spiritual tone for the days ahead. Fr. Philip, Council for Africa, led the first session under the theme “Listening in Spirit.” He invited participants to reflect deeply on how listening intently, compassionately, and respectfully to the Word of God, to self, and to others continues to shape missionary leadership today. This moment of contemplation reminded all present that listening is not only a pastoral skill but a foundation for discernment and communion in mission.
The second day was dedicated to the presentation of reports from the different Areas and Regions, as well as from the General Council. These reports offered transparency and accountability, while also providing opportunities for shared learning and encouragement. The discussions that followed centered on team support and facilitation, and on the re-imagining of Missions and Areas. Leaders reflected on how to renew missionary zeal, strengthen collaboration, and adapt structures to respond more effectively to the pastoral realities of our time.
The final day brought together a wide range of agenda items that touched on the daily life and sustainability of missionary service. Among the matters discussed were the Strategic Plan Review, fostering unity and togetherness, strengthening safeguarding practices, supports from parishes to members and upkeep of MEP, building capacity among members, planning for retirement and construction projects, expanding Friends of Mill Hill initiatives, addressing driving and insurance protocols, managing transitions and handovers, inducting and supporting new members, and reviewing financial stewardship. These conversations were not isolated but formed part of a broader effort to ensure that the structures supporting mission remain strong, life-giving, and faithful to the Gospel.
Throughout the three days, the African Cluster reaffirmed the Mill Hill Missionaries’ orientational context: to be a community of listening, service, and accountability, rooted in the Gospel and responsive to the realities of today’s societies.
The 2026 African Cluster was a moment of grace and renewal. It strengthened unity among missionary leaders, deepened commitment to accountability, and re-imagined the future of Mill Hill Missions in Africa. As members departed, they carried with them a renewed zeal to continue building vibrant Christian communities and serving the most vulnerable in the spirit of Christ.
Patrick Lonkoy Bolengu, MHM
Cover Photo: Hillary Awiti (East Africa), Innocent Akum Wefon (Cameroon), Philip Adede (GC), Emmanuel Omollo (South Sudan), Lonkoy Patrick Bolengu (DRC), Mathew Juma Ong’any (South Africa)
