Fr. Thierry recently returned to Rome from his visit to the United States, to resume his position of General Assistant and his responsibility for the North American Province and the Near Eastern Mission which encompasses Athens, Jerusalem, Bulgaria and more. He is also chairperson of the International Commission of the Lay/Religious Alliance.

Born in the Democratic Republic of the Congo forty-nine years ago, Fr. Thierry spent the month of March in the U.S. to “see the faces of the people I have been charged with” and to learn English. Though officially residing in Pavel House while studying, Father was also able to attend the Council of the Province which met in Worcester and update the members on several recent developments in the congregation and was present for the discussion on future structures.

In addition to meeting folks in Brighton and Worcester, Fr. Thierry visited St. Anne and St. Patrick’s in Sturbridge and attended the funeral of Fr. Leo Brassard, A.A. Also of significance to him was to attend the parish Lay Assumptionists meeting one evening. Thanks to Fr. John Franck, A.A. who acted as translator, Fr. Thierry caught the “spirit” of the group through the sharing of information, discussion and prayer. When asked about the political conditions on the Congo, Father expressed his serious concerns about the violence and danger everyone is exposed to and the need to keep the people, especially the youth, and our Assumptionist brothers in our prayers.

When asked about our three brothers who were kidnapped, Father, who was charged to find out about what happened, explained that there was never a clear witness to give information on their fate or what really happened.

On the last night of Fr. Thierry’s visit, the Brighton community, residents and staff hosted a farewell dinner for him during which he expressed – in a valiant attempt in English – his gratitude for the warm hospitality and love he received from everyone and concluded by promising to return next year.