Ireland: Viatores Christi celebrates 65 years of lay mission: a legacy of service and synodality

This weekend, Viatores Christi, Ireland's leading lay missionary association, celebrates 65 years of dedicated service to mission, justice, and global solidarity. Established in the wake of the Second Vatican Council (Vatican II), the organisation was formed in recognition of the call to mission extended to all the baptised - a bold vision at a time when lay involvement in mission was still emerging.

"In many ways, Viatores Christi was ahead of its time," said Pauline Conway, President of Viatores Christi. "Long before the full impact of Vatican II was felt, this association recognised the indispensable role of lay people in the Church's mission to the world."

A Movement in Step with the Synodal Church

As the Irish Synodal Pathway continues to unfold, encouraging lay people to take up their baptismal call with renewed commitment, Viatores Christi stands as a living example of what a lay-led Church can achieve. The association echoes Pope Francis' call to holiness - a call that finds expression not only in contemplation but in concrete acts of love and service to the world's most vulnerable.

"This is a moment of profound grace for us," continued Conway. "To lead Viatores Christi during our 65th year, at a time when the global Church is recognising once again the vital role of the laity, is both a privilege and a responsibility."

A Global Impact

Since its founding in 1960, Viatores Christi has trained and supported thousands of volunteers and development workers who have served in long-term projects across Africa, Southeast Asia, Haiti, and beyond. The organisation has been a strong partner to local communities, working in sectors such as education, healthcare, disability services, and community development - always prioritising the most marginalised.

Whether its supporting long-term development programmes though its engagement with its many partners or whether it is the training and sending of lay missionary volunteers, Viatores Christi continues to embody the missionary spirit of solidarity, justice, and faith in action.

Thanksgiving and Reflection

The organisation will hold its 65th Annual General Meeting this Saturday, 20 September, in Dublin. The event will include a Thanksgiving Mass, honouring all those who have contributed to its mission - volunteers, staff, partners, and supporters.

A special thanksgiving will also be offered for the recent safe release of Irish missionary and long-standing Viatores Christi member, Gena Heraty, who had been held hostage in Haiti. Gena's unwavering commitment to children with disabilities in Haiti remains an inspiring example of the Gospel in action.

As Viatores Christi marks this significant milestone, it renews its commitment to forming lay missionaries who not only cross borders of geography but also those of culture, comfort, and indifference.

Viatores Christi (VC) is a member-based Irish lay missionary and international development organisation. They work with partners including missionary congregations, dioceses, NGOs and community-based organisations (CBOs) to bring about positive change. They offer a range of interventions to enable this, including training in development, funding for capacity building, and deployment of trained volunteers.

LINK

Viatores Christi: https://vcvolunteers.ie/