Assumptionists gathered for 125^th anniversary with concelebrating bishops

On Thursday, November 5, 2015,  Assumptionists and friends gathered in the village of Mendoza near Rengo to commemorate 125 years of presence in Chile. The archbishop at the time, Most Rev. Casanova, had encountered them in France during a trip he made to Lourdes. While in France he became aware of their missionary zeal as well as their commitment to the Catholic press and so invited them to Chile. According to letters he wrote at the time, it is easy to see that he wanted them to get involved in preaching the gospel in rural areas, in vocation ministry, and in spreading a devotion to the Blessed Mother.

On September 20, 1890, ten Assumptionists left the port of Bordeaux (France) for Chile: Frs. Stéphane Chaboud (superior), Géry Delalleau, Adrien Buisson, Thomas Darbois, Marius Peysson and Bros. Santiago Cornelias, Carlos Andrés Ropero, Gregorio, Pascal Claudet and Manuel.

Arriving at the Pacific port of Talcahuano more than a month later on October 29, they were directed to a large ranch near Rengo that had been donated to the archbishop by a wealthy relative of his for the sake of a future foundation.

The complex consisted of three small adobe buildings and a chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary. They arrived on November 5, 1890.

Today the Assumptionists in Chile maintain responsibility for the parish of Rengo and its numerous outstations.

They have expanded their ministry to three other dioceses (Santiago, Valparaiso, and Concepcion) and are currently involved not only in parish ministry but in schools, shrines, and the press.