From May 19-23, 2025, the diverse Redemptorist Provinces of Baltimore, Denver, Canada, Mexico, and the Vietnamese Extra-Patriam Vice Province convened for the annual Student Gathering in the welcoming city of Houston, Texas, at the Mother of Perpetual Help Retreat Centre. The main theme of this year’s gathering was about the different Redemptorist Missionary Priorities in North America from 1832 to the Present. This theme provided a rich backdrop for engaging discussions and reflections on the history and future of all Redemptorist missions in North America.

The gathering was an inspiring occasion, allowing confreres to deepen their connections and build lasting friendships. Attendees enjoyed ample opportunities for leisurely walks through the retreat center grounds and engaging in spirited board games like Catan and classic card games such as Uno. The many activities fostered a sense of community and fun-filled relaxation.

Five enlightening conferences were also delivered to the fifty-eight participants of the gathering, composed of Redemptorist students, formators, vocation directors, provincials, and one seminary professor.

Kicking things off was Fr. Gary Lauenstein, C.Ss.R., from the Denver Province, who spoke with conviction about the Redemptorists’ vital ministry to immigrant communities. He underscored the challenges many immigrants face and the compassionate role Redemptorists play in walking alongside them.

Representing the Province of Mexico, Fr. Roberto Morales Guerra, C.Ss.R., shared insights into the longstanding relationship between Redemptorists and Indigenous peoples in Mexico, particularly in Carichi and Bienvenido. His talk emphasized the importance of respect, cultural awareness, and inclusivity in ministry.

From the Baltimore Province, Professor Ramon Luzarraga, Ph.D., took a historical dive into Redemptorist work in the Caribbean, tracing their commitment from 1858 to today. His presentation explored how demographic changes in the region have influenced mission priorities over time.

The Canadian perspective came from a dynamic duo—Fr. Santo Arrigo, C.Ss.R., and Dr. Anne Walsh, D.Min.—who focused on engaging youth and young adults. They discussed both the challenges and creative strategies involved in connecting with younger generations, noting how adapting to cultural trends is key to keeping the mission relevant.

Finally, Fr. Dominic Long, C.Ss.R., of the Vice Province of Extra-Patriam, spoke about the experiences of Vietnamese immigrants and the younger generations growing up in new cultural settings. Drawing from personal stories, he highlighted the importance of identity, belonging, and the evolving needs of these communities.

After the thought-provoking conferences, participants were thoughtfully divided into small groups for an engaging discussion around the question: “What Does the History of Redemptorist Missionary Priorities Have to Say to Us Today?” These small groups provided a space for reflection and encouraged participants to share their insights and personal experiences related to the mission work.

Following these enriching discussions, the groups reconvened as a large group to share the key points and themes that emerged from their conversations. This sharing session allowed everyone to listen more closely to each other’s perspectives and gain a broader understanding of Redemptorist Mission.

The Student Gathering also provided an essential opportunity for formators, vocation directors, and provincial leaders to meet and engage in fruitful discussions relevant to their important tasks.

Finally, one the day before our departure, we held a Mass for the renewal of vows where confreres from the Provinces of Denver, Canada, and the Vice Province of Extra-Patriam renewed their commitment to the Redemptorist Mission. Thus, we first arrived at the Student gathering with a smile and ended the gathering with a wider smile as we continued the journey of spreading the Good News of Plentiful Redemption to wherever we are sent.

“Redemptorists are thus ‘apostles of conversion’, in so far as the chief object of their preaching is to lead people to a radical choice regarding their life – a decision for Christ – and draw them firmly and gently to a continuing and total conversion.” (C & S 11).