The Society of African Missions (SMA) has elected Rev. Fr. François Marie Hervé du Penhoat as its new Superior General during the congregation’s 2025 General Assembly.
A French missionary with deep pastoral roots and international experience, Fr. du Penhoat takes over leadership of the society at a time of renewed focus on intercultural evangelization and global missionary collaboration.
A former Provincial Superior of the SMA Lyon Province, Fr. du Penhoat has served in various mission contexts including France, Spain, and Benin, demonstrating a leadership style rooted in spiritual depth, pastoral closeness, and a strong commitment to the mission of the Church in Africa and the African diaspora.
In a recent interview following his election, Fr. du Penhoat spoke candidly about the challenges facing the Church, especially in the Western world. He noted that the crisis of vocations in Europe is symptomatic of a broader crisis of faith, and called for deeper spiritual renewal and missionary solidarity.
He praised the growing missionary role of the African Church, stating, “African missionaries bring a joy, depth of prayer, and sense of community that can breathe life into struggling European parishes.”
He also emphasized the need to reimagine primary evangelization, particularly in rural areas and regions where the Gospel is not yet fully proclaimed, many of which have a predominantly Islamic context. He called for stronger international collaboration and support to ensure these frontiers of mission are not neglected.
The Society of African Missions, founded in 1856 by Bishop Melchior de Marion Brésillac, is dedicated to the service of the peoples of Africa and those of African descent. Its members are present in dozens of countries across the globe, engaged in evangelization, pastoral ministry, education, interreligious dialogue, and advocacy for justice and peace.
With the election of Fr. Hervé du Penhoat, the SMA renews its global commitment to intercultural dialogue, mutual missionary exchange, and the proclamation of the Gospel at the peripheries.
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