The 2026 Inter-Obediential Missionary Course for Franciscans in Asia (IMCA 2026) brought together fifteen Franciscan missionaries from the three branches of the First Order (Friars Minor, Friars Minor Conventual and Friars Minor Capuchin) for eight weeks of formation, fraternity, and preparation for missionary service in Asia. The course was held from May 31 to July 24, 2026, at the Holy Family – Redemptorist Retreat Center in Cebu City, the Philippines. Guided by the theme, ”Sent as Pilgrims of Hope in Asia,” the course became much more than an academic program; it was a genuine journey of spiritual renewal and missionary conversion.
Beginning on the Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary (May 31) and concluding on the Memorial of St. Sharbel Makhluf (July 24), IMCA 2026 reminded us that authentic mission is rooted in prayer, contemplation, and communion with Christ. Through lectures, community life, and personal reflection, we explored the biblical, theological, ecclesial, and Franciscan foundations of mission, together with key themes such as missiology, intercultural dialogue, inculturation, evangelical poverty, reconciliation, justice and peace, and online evangelization.
A distinctive feature of IMCA 2026 was its integration of theory and practice. Weekly pastoral experiences introduced us to Basic Ecclesial Communities, Franciscan ministries, the Simala Marian Shrine, the Badjao community, mosques, temples, and ministries serving street children. These encounters deepened our appreciation of Asia’s cultural and religious diversity and showed us that evangelization begins with attentive listening, respectful dialogue, compassionate presence, and humble service.
One of the greatest blessings of the course was our life together as an international Franciscan fraternity. Sharing prayer, the Eucharist, meals, study, and recreation with friars from different countries taught us that fraternity is not simply an ideal but the first witness to the Gospel. We learned to embrace diversity, build mutual trust, and grow through intercultural dialogue and collaboration.
Personally and as a fraternity, IMCA strengthened our missionary identity, renewed our relationship with Christ, enriched our pastoral outlook, and deepened our commitment to proclaim the Gospel with humility, joy, and hope. The challenges of language, culture, and community life became opportunities for growth, reminding us that mission always begins with our own ongoing conversion.
Our group adopted the name “BRIDGE”—Brotherhood, Reconciliation, Inclusion, Dialogue, Gospel, and Encounter—expressing our shared commitment to becoming bridges of peace and hope in Asia. Formed by the Divine Potter and strengthened by Franciscan fraternity, we now return to our respective Provinces with one common vision: one mission, one fraternity, and one legacy of love.
The course officially concluded on July 24, 2026, with a Mass at the Holy Family – Redemptorist Retreat Center. During the closing ceremony, Friar Joseph PARK, OFM Conv., the Assistant General for the Federation of Asian Minor Conventuals (FAMC), and Friar Leszek ŁUCZKANIN, OFM Conv., the General Econom, presented certificates to all of the participants.
We are deeply grateful to our Ministers General—Friar Massimo FUSARELLI, OFM; Friar Carlos Alberto TROVARELLI, OFM Conv.; and Friar Roberto GENUIN, OFM Cap.—the General Secretaries for Mission—Friar Francisco GÓMEZ, OFM; Friar Mariosvaldo FLORENTINO, OFM Cap.; and Friar Dariusz MAZUREK, OFM Conv.—our dedicated animators—Friar Dennis TAYO, OFM; Friar Daniel BORROMEO; Friar Stephen Dsouza PRAVEEN; and Friar Uriel SANTOS, OFM Conv.—as well as all the speakers, pastoral partners, the Redemptorist Retreat Center community, and the Friars Minor Province of St. Anthony of Padua, for their generous support and guidance throughout this journey.
As we return to our respective ministries, we carry with us not only new knowledge but also renewed hearts. IMCA 2026 has taught us that mission is not primarily about crossing borders but about remaining in Christ, living authentic fraternity, and becoming Pilgrims of Hope who bring peace, reconciliation, and the joy of the Gospel wherever we are sent.
“May the Lord give you peace!”
Pax et Bonum!
Friar Đaminh ĐINH (Công Chưởng), OFM Conv.
Participant – IMCA 2026
