AFRICA - Franciscan “Africa Project” celebrates 25 years

Nairobi (Agenzia Fides) – In 1983, then General Minister of the Friars Minor, Fr. John Vaughn, launched the “Africa Project” in Madagascar and the Maurice Islands. The initiative implied the participation of Franciscans from various countries, especially those of the Canadian Province, which sent five missionaries. For years, Fathers Cassien Marcil, André Commtois, and Léandre Poirier evangelized in Malawi, Burundi, and Kenya. Still present in African territory are Fr. Alain Bouchard (in Madagascar) and Jacques St-Yves (in Kenya). Other religious from Quebec have shown their closeness to the African communities, where they have come as “Visitors.”
The African Province of Saint Francis now includes 9 countries: Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, Uganda, Zambia, Rwanda, Burundi, as well as Madagascar and the Maurice Islands. There are over 104 Franciscans present. The special Chapter was held for the 25th anniversary of the “Africa Project” in Nairobi from June 23-27, 2008. Over 60 religious came together, including the General Minister of the Order, Fr. Marco Tasca, OFM, the General Definitor for Africa, and Fr. Jacques St-Yves, who participated in celebrations and encounters, recalling the missionary path realized and looking towards the future with great hope. (AM) (Agenzia Fides 14/1/2009)