Inter-Obediential Mission Course in Africa Opens in Uganda

In a spirit of unity, contemplation, and missionary zeal, fifteen friars from the three branches of the first Order - OFM, OFMConv., and OFMCap. - have begun their two-month journey of preparation and formation in the Inter-Obediential Mission Course in Africa (IMCA), held for the second time at the Friary of the Conventual Friars in Kampala, Uganda. 

Prepared over months of collaboration, discernment, and logistical planning, the course opened on June 16, 2025, with a deeply symbolic and moving liturgy held in front of the Munyonyo Shrine in the Uganda Martyrs Chapel, a place resonant with witness, sacrifice, and faith. From the first moment, the tone was set: the friars gathered from different corners of Africa as pilgrims of hope, walking together toward deeper missionary renewal in the Franciscan spirit. They will be joined by three alumni, one coming from each of the three Orders, who will serve as course coordinators, with Br Dennis Tayo, OFM, as the course animator, accompanying  them throughout this journey.

The general theme - “Sent to Africa as renewed missionaries, formed as pilgrims of hope, united in St Francis’ way, to hear the cries of the poor and creation” -  was beautifully embodied in the elements of the opening celebration. In the stillness of the early Ugandan morning, the friars listened to the Canticle of the Creatures, prayed with the soil beneath their feet, and joined the global Franciscan family in this Jubilee year by centering their intentions around creation and reconciliation.

As course coordinators and animator, representing each branch of the First Order, stood before the participants, a powerful ritual unfolded. Each lit a candle from a single flame, which was then passed to every friar - an act signifying the unity of the Franciscan charism and the shared light of Christ that binds all three Orders in mission, in St Francis’ ways. Following this, the three friars joined together to pump water from a single source, symbolizing the living water of the Spirit. This water was then used to bless the senses of each friar, invoking openness, discernment, and courage as they embark on this two-month journey, which will end on August 09, 2025.

More than just a course, this is a lived experience of inter-obediential fraternity, missionary reawakening, and ecological conversion. Rooted in the African soil, enriched by diverse voices, and guided by the spirit of St. Francis, these two months promise to be a time of encounter - with self, with brothers, with the poor, and with creation.

As the friars journey together, may the fire lit from one source and the water drawn from one well continue to fuel their hearts for the missions ahead.    

By: Br Dennis T. Tayo, OFM
General Animator for Missions and IMCA Course Animator 2025