Germain Nsasi, cicm
Missionary in Belgium
(Brief overview of the meeting of young confreres, held in Scheut on May 1, 2025)
On May 1, 2025, a group of young confreres from the CICM-BNL Province gathered in Scheut for an in-depth reflection on a crucial issue: the link between finances and spiritual life. The preparation for this meeting was facilitated by the individual reading of a reflection by our confrere Eric Manhaeghe, which focuses on a conviction of our Founder: “The Good Lord knows well that without money there is no way to do his work. He will not refuse it to us.” Moderated by our confrere Jozef Lapauw and enriched by the expertise of Marc Vandermeiren, Provincial Treasurer, this meeting provided a clear and collective look at the economic realities that shape the future of the mission.
A Necessary Reflection on our Relationship with Finances
The session opened with a prayer and a reading from the Acts of the Apostles, reminding us that the material dimension of missionary life cannot be separated from spirituality. However, in the face of a gradual decline in numbers, resource management is becoming a significant concern. Marc Vandermeiren, drawing on his experience during CICM training in Cameroon, highlighted one observation: while expenses remain constant, contributions from confreres tend to decrease.
Living our Commitment in a Consumer Society
In a lively exchange, participants explored a fundamental question: How can we preserve a simple and balanced life while living in a society governed by consumption? The discussions revealed a need for vigilance and discernment. While the community model offers protection against material excess, it is essential to cultivate habits of sobriety, inspired by the first disciples. Some confreres, trained in more austere contexts in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, offered valuable insights on how to remain detached from the grip of material possessions while providing for daily needs.
The CICM-BNL Province: a United Family
Reflection continued on the perception of the Province: Is it a simple administrative structure or a genuine space of fraternity and belonging? For many, the Province is above all a living community, founded on bonds of solidarity and mutual responsibility. Financial management should not be a taboo subject, but a tool for ensuring the continuity of our missions and the well-being of our confreres. Greater transparency in financial reporting is a way forward to better live out the vow of poverty.
Bold Proposals for the Future
One of the strong recommendations that emerged from the discussions was the introduction of a voluntary annual contribution, allowing each confrere to contribute according to their means. At the same time, the adoption of a more realistic budgetary culture is encouraged to avoid imbalances during periods of vacation or family support.
Current Challenges and Missionary Prospects
Finally, Martin Mvibudulu, Provincial Superior, gave an overview of the challenges ahead. The welcome and integration of new confreres, active participation in missionary projects, and the sustainability of existing structures are among the priorities. The development of the Ostend-Zeebrugge mission from September 2025 and the ongoing discussions with the Diocese of Liège for a missionary community project in 2027 testify to a renewed commitment to the spiritual and pastoral growth of the Province.
Through this meeting, a conviction has been affirmed: each confrere, through his personal commitment, shapes the future of the mission. Far from being a mere economic concern, financial reflection is an essential dimension of our collective spiritual journey.
Conclusion: A Sign of Faith and Hope
With hope and faith, may each confrere, whether retired or active, carry the missionary projects of the Province in constant prayer, asking God to be their guide and source of fruitfulness, so that they may shine with His light and bear lasting fruit for His work.
