The international Kolping community continues to grow. In recent weeks, we have supported important steps toward establishing new Kolping Families and national associations in several countries. Whether in Africa or Asia—more and more people are drawing inspiration from Adolph Kolping’s ideas and are getting involved to combine faith, community, and social responsibility.
A first step was taken in Burkina Faso. Father Paul Damien Sawadogo visited the General Secretariat of KOLPING INTERNATIONAL in Cologne and discussed the next steps for development with General Praeses Msgr. Christoph Huber. The first training sessions for future members and leaders have already gotten off to a successful start and are generating great interest. A moving moment during his visit was the visit to the tomb of Blessed Adolph Kolping in Cologne’s Church of Minorites, which provided new motivation for further expanding Kolping’s work in Burkina Faso.
Progress is also being made in Chad. During a trip by Dancille Mujawamariya, member of the International Executive Board of KOLPING INTERNATIONAL, to various parishes and interested groups, numerous discussions were held regarding the establishment of the first Kolping Families. The keen interest shown even by the country’s bishops confirms that the Kolping idea is falling on fertile ground here as well. In the coming months, additional training sessions are scheduled to take place, and the first Kolping Families will be officially established.
There are also encouraging developments in Pakistan, as we have previously reported. Following the establishment of the first successful Kolping Families, additional groups are now meeting regularly to familiarize themselves with spirituality, self-help, and the fundamentals of Kolping work. The number of interested individuals is growing steadily—especially among young people.
“The establishment of new Kolping Families is far more than just the creation of new structures,” emphasizes General Praeses Msgr. Christoph Huber. “Everywhere we go, we encounter people who are moved by Adolph Kolping’s message and who, out of their faith, want to take on responsibility. This development fills us with great gratitude and confidence.”
