Since July 12, 2025, a Forum has brought together young people from the various mission sites of the Religious of the Assumption in Burkina Faso. This event marks the fourth edition of the Forum.
The first edition was held in 2010, gathering youth from the five countries that form the Province of West Africa, namely: Benin, Burkina Faso, Côte d'Ivoire, Niger and Togo. It is a different approach to vocation ministry.
At the end of that first edition, under the theme: “Witness of Hope, you, young person of the Assumption, arise. Tomorrow depends on you!”, the next meeting was scheduled for 2013 in Lomé, Togo. It was a wonderful experience in the Togolese capital, with the theme: “Young person of the Assumption, witness of Reconciliation, Justice and Peace.”
The third edition was convened in Daloa, Côte d'Ivoire, in 2017, with the theme: “Each of us has a mission on earth,” inspired by Saint Marie Eugénie.
After this enriching experience, a new forum was planned for 2020 in Niamey, Niger. Unfortunately, due to security concerns and the COVID-19 pandemic, the fourth edition could not take place at that time.
Eventually, the Provincial Youth and Vocations Team decided to organize the gathering this year in Koudougou, Burkina Faso—and it has finally come to life! However, young people from the other countries could not attend, again due to security issues.
The youth from Burkina Faso arrived from Bobo and Ouagadougou in heavy rain and were warmly welcomed by their peers from Sainte Monique College in Koudougou.
The theme of this fourth edition was: “Young person of the Assumption, become an upright citizen in the digital world.” A timely and thought-provoking theme, in light of today’s challenges, and of great significance.
This theme, dedicated to young people, is far from trivial. Indeed, youth are at the heart of the priorities of the Religious of the Assumption. Young minds are like sponges, seeking meaningful input to absorb and embody.
This is why we, the Religious of the Assumption, heirs to the spirit of Saint Marie Eugénie, our foundress, are committed to forming young people in all aspects of life, so that they may actively contribute to the positive transformation of society.
This Forum offers them a space for learning and fruitful exchange around engaging and enriching sub-themes such as:
Each day is structured around prayer and morning Mass, conferences, sports activities and creative workshops. A cultural and recreational outing was also very much appreciated by both the youth and their facilitators.
Clearly, the participants are delighted and eager to take part in future editions of the Forum.
Their motto: “Young person of the Assumption, committed to a transformed world!”
Sister Marie-Madeleine AGONOU, R.A.