Society of African Missions

To be a missionary from the bottom of my heart.

Venerable Bishop Melchior de Marion Brésillac

“A vital ministry of service and empowerment motivated by the Gospel.”

The Society of African Missions (SMA) is a remarkable international community of Catholic missionaries dedicated to serving the people of Africa and individuals of African descent worldwide. With a rich history that dates back to its establishment in 1856 by the Venerable Bishop Melchior de Marion Brésillac in Lyons, France, the SMA has become synonymous with compassion and outreach.

The name "Society of African Missions" is commonly abbreviated as SMA, rather than SAM, which confuses many. The reason behind this choice lies in the Latin translation of the society's official name, Societas Missionum ad Afros. This Latin version aligns with the initials SMA and has been embraced by the organization.

Comprising 944 members hailing from diverse continents such as Africa, America, Asia, and Europe, the SMA operates in numerous African countries, as well as Europe, the Americas, and Asia. To facilitate their mission, the SMA is organized into Provinces, Districts, and Delegations, allowing for effective coordination and outreach efforts.

African members of the SMA represent a range of countries including Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Central Africa, Congo, Egypt, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Liberia, Nigeria, Tanzania, Togo, and Zambia. Meanwhile, Asian members primarily come from India and the Philippines. The American continent is represented by members from Argentina, Canada, and the USA. Lastly, European members hail from Belgium, Britain, France, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, and Spain.

The Society of African Missions extends a warm welcome to individuals who share its mission and are willing to embrace its way of life. Embodying the teachings of Christ and remaining faithful to the Founder's charism, the SMA strives to bear witness to God's compassionate love for the world, as highlighted in John 3:16. By remaining attentive to the evolving signs of the times and fostering an atmosphere of openness and dialogue, the SMA actively collaborates with local churches and like-minded organizations in pursuit of common goals.

With a particular focus on Africans and individuals of African origin, the SMA carries out a vital ministry of service and empowerment. Motivated by the Gospel and guided by the SMA Constitutions & Laws, the members dedicate themselves to uplifting communities and fostering positive change.

Through their tireless efforts, the Society of African Missions continues to impact countless lives, making a tangible difference in Africa and among people of African descent worldwide. Their dedication to service and empowerment truly embodies the spirit of compassion and love that lies at the heart of their mission.

Objectives

Primary Evangelization and Inculturation

The SMA prioritizes the review of its apostolic commitments based on the Gospel, SMA charism, and local churches' missionary priorities. SMA members and associates are willing to proclaim the Gospel and establish Christian communities in areas requiring urgent missionary attention, with a focus on primary evangelization. Cooperation with local churches, particularly in Africa, for inculturation programs is a key aspect.

Other Apostolic Activities

The SMA actively participates in diocesan pastoral programs with a missionary spirit. Returning members are encouraged to engage in apostolic activities aligned with the SMA charism and priorities, both within and outside SMA structures. The Society coordinates efforts to utilize media in its apostolate across all levels.

Promotion of Human Values

Collaborating with organizations, both public and voluntary, including African networks like AEFJN and AFJN, the SMA involves its members and associates in initiatives supporting marginalized groups, such as refugees, street children, and AIDS victims, both within and outside Africa. The SMA supports African peoples in their pursuit of just structures and works to address injustices arising within or from church practices.

Inter-religious and Ecumenical Dialogue

Despite challenges, the SMA strives to foster better understanding of Islam and collaboration with Muslims. Members and associates acquire in-depth knowledge of languages, cultures, and traditional religions of the communities they serve, particularly in Africa, to enhance understanding and communication. The SMA promotes ecumenical dialogue and cooperation with various Christian churches.

Collaboration

SMA members collaborate with the local church, other missionary institutes, the laity, and SMA associates at all levels of their ministries. The Society intensifies involvement in empowering and training laypersons for leadership roles in Africa, in collaboration with diocesan programs. General criteria for lay associate membership are developed, and the SMA welcomes different forms of lay association in all its units.

Missionary and Vocations Animation

Drawing on their experiences and support from friends and benefactors, the SMA focuses on missionary animation within local churches and communities. The Society emphasizes the use of media for missionary animation and to communicate the Good News effectively.