On October 2, 2026, an ecumenical group of approximately 40 students from Germany, led by Michael Press, Study Leader of the Ecumenical College, visited Rome as part of their academic and formational program.
The group consists of students from diverse Christian traditions, including Lutherans, Roman Catholics, Orthodox Christians, and other Christian denominations. The majority of the participants are studying theology, while some are pursuing studies in other academic fields.
As part of their program in Rome, the students expressed interest in learning about international Catholic religious congregations that continue to be actively engaged in ministry and mission throughout the world. Their contact with the Congregation of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary (SSCC) in Rome was facilitated through Fr. Guillermo Rosas sscc, from Chile.
Fr. Stephen Banjare sscc, met with the group and presented an overview of the Congregation of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary. The presentation included information about the Congregation's history, charism, mission, apostolic activities, international presence, and various ministries carried out in different parts of the world.
Particular attention was given to the Congregation's missionary and pastoral commitment and to the ways in which its members seek to respond to the needs of the Church and society in different cultural and social contexts.
Following the presentation, an interactive question-and-answer session was held. The participants raised numerous questions concerning the Congregation's mission, vocation, formation, international presence, collaboration between religious and lay people, and the challenges and opportunities facing Catholic religious life today.
The students showed great interest and appreciation for the presentation and the opportunity to learn about the life and mission of an international Catholic religious congregation. The encounter provided a valuable opportunity for ecumenical dialogue, mutual understanding, and sharing of experiences of Christian faith and mission.
The visit concluded in a spirit of gratitude, fraternity, and openness, with the students expressing their happiness for the opportunity to encounter the Congregation of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary and to learn more about its mission in the Church and the world.
10/03/2026