As the Assumptionist Center in Brighton, MA continued its Sunday ‘conversations’ series, the most recent topic explored media and Assumptionist publications as a ministry serving the Church.

Historically, Church leaders have always had a special mandate from Jesus to proclaim, “that the Kingdom of God is at hand,” in every possible way, including and especially for us through the printed word. In today’s world of rapidly expanding means of technological communication, the publishing world is facing very difficult challenges.

The Assumptionists have always had a strong commitment to the ministry of the press in communicating the Good News. Since our earliest beginnings in France, our own publishing house, Bayard Press, has grown throughout the world, including here in the U.S.

WYD took place in Madrid this year. It was an opportunity for young people associated with the Assumption Family to gather around the Pope with other young people from around the entire world. All branches of the family were represented. We’ve contacted some of them to give us their impressions by way of a personal testimony.

On Sunday, October 30^th, a meeting of lay and religious Assumptionists took place in Mexico. hirty-four participants, lay men and women and religious came together from Argentina, Colombia, Chile, Spain, the United States and Mexico.

The main goal of the meeting was summarized in the following terms: “With the decisions of the 2011 General Chapter regarding the Lay-Religious Alliance as our starting point, we would like to provide guidelines appropriate for our Latin-American context that would help us to become men and women of faith and communion, in solidarity with the poor”.

“Sing and play music in your hearts to the Lord, always giving thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Ephesians 5:19-20)

Good and gracious God, we set aside this day to celebrate in a special way with all  who give You thanks for your many blessings, both spiritual and physical.
You have graced us abundantly during the past year and throughout our lives.
You have given us life to enjoy and to share in service to our brothers and sisters, especially with those who are in most need of Your blessings.
And so it is fitting that we give you praise and thanks today and everyday.
We pray this in the name of Jesus, Your Son.
Amen.