Renewing the Mission, Inspiring the Future
Renewing the Mission, Inspiring the Future
A conversation with Father Kiko
As the Vincentian Marian Youth (VMY/JMY) grows globally, the call to renewal and inspiration becomes more essential. In this time of transition and hope, we turn to the wisdom of Father Kiko for insight and guidance. With decades of experience and deep commitment to the mission, Father Kiko reflects on the journey so far, the present needs of the movement, and a vision for what lies ahead.
Reflecting on Our Journey
Looking back on the global mission of VMY, Father Kiko identifies a powerful testimony to the Spirit’s movement in the association’s perseverance:
“The continuous and hopeful efforts to spread and establish the association in all parts of the globe despite the dark reality of diminishing numbers or even some outright dying of groups in certain countries.”
Even amidst a decline in some regions, the mission persists. He believes success is not numerical growth but faithful commitment to spreading the message, steadfast in hope, regardless of obstacles.
When asked if he has felt the Spirit active in the mission, he answers without hesitation:
“Frankly, every day. Yes, every day.”
He sees God at work in the daily efforts however smallof leaders, youth, and volunteers:
“Despite limitations and challenges, I continue to feel the Spirit empowering us, making us be and do things.”
Understanding Renewal
Father Kiko holds profound personal and spiritual meaning in the phrase “renewing the mission.”
“It signifies a call to be in constant sync with the will of God.”
He roots this renewal in the very foundation of the association:
“The mission of the VMY is certainly from God. The Blessed Mother bore and gave that message to St. Catherine Labouré in 1830.”
Remaining faithful to this origin, while adapting to the present moment, requires more than strategy or programs. He emphasizes the spiritual core:
“Much more than having the courage, strength, perseverance, and the desire to continuously expand the VMY Association to all parts of the globe, it is by having a steadfast and solid prayer life, alongside embracing the Vincentian spirituality that makes us stay true to the mission’s foundational spirit.”
Inspiring Future Generations
Looking ahead, Father Kiko offers a compelling vision for engaging the next generation. At the heart of his approach is the relationship:
“Genuine encounter and friendship with today’s youth. A synodal journey together with the youth. It is accompaniment in its purest form.”
He understands and emphasizes the importance of being personally present to young people, something that cannot be replaced by digital tools alone:
“It is relational in the personal, not virtual, level. Where friendship leads to discipleship, evangelization, and mission.”
Father Kiko does not claim to predict the future when asked how he sees the mission evolving over the next 10–20 years. Instead, he offers a hope grounded in fidelity:
“I see the mission depending on the rootedness and fidelity of all VMY leaders, from the local to the national to the international levels, in the spirit of Jesus and St. Vincent de Paul.”
Navigating Challenges and Opportunities
Every mission faces obstacles, and VMY is no exception. Father Kiko identifies a significant challenge today:
“Lack or absence of genuine friendships and accompaniment that lead to a deep encounter and knowledge of Jesus Christ.”
Rather than discouragement, he sees this gap as a place for growth:
“Guided always by the intercession and inspiration of our Lady of the Miraculous Medal, a deep friendship with Jesus starts all life-giving friendships and mission within the VMY Family all across the globe.”
Personal Journey and Guidance
Speaking from his own experience as a priest and missionary, Father Kiko shares how he has renewed his vocation in recent years:
“Constant renewal in my vocation in recent years is always experienced when encounters with spiritual people within the VMY family lead to the ever-burning desire to journey with youth towards God.”
To young people discerning their place in the Church, his guidance is clear and grounded in balance:
“Spend precious time not just in activities and outreach, especially to the poor, but also in regular prayer.”
In his eyes, this dual focus of action and contemplation is vital for deepening one’s vocation and mission.
Concluding Reflections
When asked to summarize this new chapter of the VMY mission in a single sentence, Father Kiko offers a heartfelt expression:
“From the heart of God and our Blessed Mother to the hearts of every youth!”
His vision for the future is shaped by strategic insight and prayer. He shares a prayer that continues to guide him in his ministry with young people:
“Lord, make my heart unto thine, so I may genuinely touch the hearts of the young to pursue the path to which you call them. Amen.”
The call is now ours as members of one international family united across languages, continents, and cultures. With eyes fixed on Christ and hearts open to the Spirit, we renew our commitment to the mission entrusted to us nearly two centuries ago. Let us move forward together: rooted in prayer, inspired by love, and always ready to answer the call from God’s heart to every young person’s heart.