After having breakfast at 8:00 a.m. and participating in the morning prayer of Lauds at 9:00 a.m. at the Episcopal Museum, we commenced our Claretian Spirituality Congress with a presentation titled “175 Years of Claretian Spirituality” by Father Carlos Sánchez Miranda, CMF. In his presentation, he discussed the historical context of Claretian spirituality, the transmission of the Founder’s spiritual experience, missionary spirituality in a conventual context, and a spirituality rooted in the origins and open to new times.

Father Carlos explained that the 19th century was a challenging time of conflict between revolutions and restorations. It was during this period that Claretian spirituality emerged. This spirituality is based on the experiences of the Founder and embraces a missionary spirit rooted in tradition but open to new ideas. It is nourished by the Gospel and the core values of its origins and remains responsive to the changing realities of the world. After the Second Vatican Council, the Congregation further enriched its spirituality. The 17th General Chapter, the Declaration on the charism of Saint Anthony Mary Claret, and the Declaration on the Spiritual Heritage of the Congregation were essential milestones that led to a profound transformation in how spirituality is understood and lived within the Congregation. This transformation emphasized a spirituality centered on the heart of Mary, evangelical and religious, apostolic, priestly, and secular, and Christocentric within the Church.

Father Mathew Vattamattam, the Superior General, discussed “Towards an Integral Claretian Missionary Spirituality, a Call from God for Our Time.” He emphasized the importance of rooting Claretian spirituality in Christ and highlighted its essential role in preparing for the mission. Father Mathew stressed the significance of Claret and the Claretian charism, pointing out that our spiritual journey leads us to the fullness of God. Additionally, he addressed the process of spiritual transformation, recognizing the presence of challenges and the risk of stagnation along the way.

After the two talks, the participants went to the Escribania for group sharing. In the afternoon, the first of the series of workshops began. They were centered on Claretian spirituality, the vocation of the Claretian family, etc.

At 7:30 p.m., we celebrated the Eucharist, which included vespers, presided over by Father Henry B. Omonisaye, CMF, who is celebrating his 25th Ordination Anniversary. He emphasized that our vocation-spirituality must remain a permanent place of thanksgiving. He was given an apostolic blessing towards the end of the Mass. After dinner at 8:30 p.m., we finally arrived at the well-deserved rest.