The Regional Conference of Major Superiors of Southern Africa (RCMSSA) has concluded its Second General Assembly in Luanda, Angola, marking a renewed commitment to unity, mission, and collaboration among consecrated men and women in the region.
Sheila Pires – Pretoria
Held from 28 January to 2 February 2026 under the theme “Consecrated Life United for Mission,” the Assembly brought together 28 delegates from nine Southern African countries for prayer, discernment, and reflection. The major superiors met at Angola’s national Marian shrine, Santuário de Nossa Senhora da Muxima (Sanctuary of Our Lady of Muxima), commonly known as Mama Muxima.
A moment of grace and discernment
The gathering was presided over by Fr Jose Joaquim Luís Pedro, outgoing President of the RCMSSA. He was accompanied by Bishop Leopoldo Ndakalako of the Diocese of Menongue. The latter is the liaison Bishop for consecrated life in Angola, under the auspices of the Episcopal Conference of Angola and São Tomé (CEAST).
In an interview, Sr Nkhensani Shibambo, Secretary General of RCMSSA and a member of the religious congregation of the Companions of St. Angela in Johannesburg, South Africa, described the assembly as “a true moment of grace, discernment and deep communion.”
“We reflected together on our shared mission as consecrated persons in Southern Africa, journeying together in hope and communion,” she said.
Liturgy as a sign of unity
Sr Shibambo highlighted the strong ecclesial character of the gathering, marked by moments of prayer and unity with the local Church. The opening Mass was presided over by Bishop Ndakalako, and the Sunday Eucharist led by the Apostolic Nuncio to Angola, Archbishop Kryspin Witold Dubiel, together with Bishops and Archbishops of Angola. The liturgies were described as powerful signs of communion between consecrated life and the local Church.
“These moments reminded us that Consecrated Life walks hand in hand with the local Church in mission,” she said.
Some of the Major Superiors in Angola
Challenges in religious life today
According to Sr Shibambo, during the assembly, delegates reflected on the major social and ecclesial challenges in the region, including poverty, inequality, migration, human trafficking, ecological crises, and the realities confronting consecrated life itself, particularly in formation, sustainability, and care for members.
At the end of the assembly, members adopted resolutions focused on strengthening formation, safeguarding, care for creation, collaboration, leadership development, and responsibility for the well-being of consecrated persons.
The assembly concluded on World Day for Consecrated Life.
