Theme of the Regional Assemblies

This year’s Regional Assemblies had as their theme “On The Road to the Centennial of the Work: Understanding Our Charism More Deeply and Renewing Our Desire to Serve God, the Church, and Society.” They were a unique opportunity not only to prepare for the upcoming General Ordinary Congress in 2025 in Rome, but also to heed the Prelate’s call to prepare for the centennial in 2028.

Gathering Reflections from Members and Friends

The months-long process of the Regional Assemblies took place in several stages, beginning with personal reflection on the Assembly’s theme, as well as the framework document, “Path to the Centennial.” The Regional Advisory and the Regional Commission then gathered input from all the faithful of the Work in the region, as well as cooperators and friends. Through surveys and study groups over the summer, everyone was invited to offer suggestions on what should be prioritized in the next ten years and how the centennial should be celebrated.

Those suggestions covered a wide range of topics such as: the desire for spirituality and search for meaning in one’s life and in our societies, the longing for stable family and social relationships, the need to support and accompany people of all ages and states in life, service, solidarity, and dialogue.

Committees then categorized all the submissions into general areas of study for two work weeks in September. During those in-person meetings, participants reviewed all the information from the surveys and study groups and compiled documents highlighting key points and recommendations for the General Congress and the centennial. The final reports were submitted to the Prelate for review.

The Next Hundred Years

The Prelature of Opus Dei in the United States and Canada would like to thank everyone who participated in these Assemblies, whether through prayer or the time spent reflecting and making proposals. The information gathered is incredibly valuable, not just for the upcoming Congress but also as a resource for the Work’s efforts in this region. Understanding the concerns and interests of so many individuals will surely help improve formation and advance our apostolic work in the years to come.

As the Prelate mentioned in his message in November 2023, the Assemblies have been a great opportunity to “explore the ‘gift of the Spirit received by St. Josemaría’ (Ad charisma tuendum), appreciate the beauty of our mission to serve the Church and society, and express the desire to accompany many people on their journey to heaven.”