Lubumbashi, D.R. Congo – March 2025 – On Sunday, March 16, the City of Youth in Lubumbashi hosted a memorable ceremony marking the conclusion of Missionary Week in the Salesian Province of Central Africa (AFC). This event celebrated the 150th anniversary of the first Salesian missionary expedition.

Missionary Week, which began on March 9, was an opportunity for AFC’s Salesian communities to reflect on their mission, renew their commitment, and express gratitude for the journey taken over the years. It also served as a platform for discussing the current challenges facing the Salesian mission.

Under the theme "Give Thanks, Rethink, Relaunch," the Missionary Circle youth group played a central role in the event. Sr. Léontine, FMA, led a reflection session, urging the community to reassess their missionary commitment in today's world.

The concluding Eucharistic celebration, presided over by Fr. Dieudonné Besa, SDB, representative of the Provincial Superior, brought together more than 150 young people from various missionary environments. The Mass was concelebrated by Fr. Dominique Kubuya and Fr. Serge Ahadi, DIAM and Chaplain of the Missionary Circle, respectively.

In his homily, Fr. Besa emphasized the three fundamental pillars of mission: faith, prayer, and witness. He encouraged young people to live these values daily to bring the Salesian spirit to the world. Donations collected throughout the week, reflecting the youth's commitment to the universal mission, will support missionary projects in disadvantaged regions.