60th Anniversary of the Italian Catholic Mission served by the Adorno Fathers
Part of being a Christian is sharing, said Bishop Dr. Felix Genn at the beginning of the Holy Mass celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Italian Catholic Mission in the Diocese of Münster on November 10, 2024. This reflection set the tone for a day of joy, gratitude, and unity, where faith and community came together in the heart of this historic mission.
The Mass, celebrated in Italian and German, took place in the majestic Erphokirche, with Bishop Genn presiding over the event with great solemnity. Welcoming the Italian community as an integral part of the diocese, the bishop emphasized the shared journey of six decades, acknowledging that Italian faithful are now "at home" in Münster. This sentiment touched everyone present, especially when the bishop recited the liturgical texts in Italian, earning an applause of appreciation for his closeness.
Fr. Biju CRM, missionary in Münster, warmly welcomed everyone, expressing his pride and affection for the mission's journey. The celebration was enriched by the presence of many friends and missionaries who have shaped the history of the Italian Catholic Mission, including the Superior General of the Adorno Fathers, Fr. Teodoro Kalaw CRM, and historic missionaries such as Fr. Mario Salon CRM, Fr. Pierpaolo Ottone CRM and Fr. Jaison Jose CRM.
In his homily, Bishop Genn highlighted the feast of St. Martin and the importance of living the value of sharing, a Christian principle that resonated throughout the anniversary. The Mass concluded with a collective moment of emotion as the faithful expressed their gratitude with a heartfelt round of applause for the bishop.
The day continued with a gathering at the headquarters of the Italian Catholic Mission, celebrating the dedication and contributions of everyone who has supported the mission's growth. Franz-Thomas Sonka, a representative of the diocese, reflected on the history of Italian “guest workers,” emphasizing the role of missions as places of hospitality and cultural integration for those who sought spiritual and social support after arriving in Germany.
In subsequent speeches, various leaders emphasized the importance of dedicated pastoral care, which continues to address the needs of Italian faithful, expressing hope that this service will be sustained for future generations.
The celebration ended with a convivial dinner enriched by music and dancing, where fraternity and joy brought everyone together to mark this significant milestone. Bishop Genn, fulfilling a promise made during the pandemic, joined the festivities, fostering a sense of closeness and hope for the future.
The 60 years of the Italian Catholic Mission in the Diocese of Münster were an opportunity to renew the commitment to bring the light of faith, hope, and hospitality to all, both within the community and beyond. The mission remains a beacon of hope for many, a place where faith is lived daily through a journey of sharing and community.
With open hearts, we invite you to consider a donation to support the mission. Every contribution, big or small, helps train new missionaries and sustain activities that continue this vital work of faith, hospitality, and witness. Your generous act is a tangible sign of love and hope for the future of our mission.
Fr. Biju CRM