The Assembly opened on July 20 with a message from Pope Leo XIV, delivered by the newly appointed Apostolic Nuncio to the United States, Archbishop Gabriele Caccia. In his letter, the Holy Father expressed his gratitude to the major superiors for their dedicated service, writing: “You have helped to reinforce the public witness of consecrated men who devote their lives to the service of the Gospel.” He also imparted his Apostolic Blessing, entrusting the participants and their deliberations to the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Representing the SVD North America Subzone were the three provincial superiors: Fr. Peter Zhai, SVD (USW), Fr. Adam Oleszczuk, SVD (USC), and Fr. Augustine “Gus” Wall, SVD (USS). They were joined by Fr. Akizou Kamina, SVD, member of the Provincial Council of the Chicago Province; Fr. Duong Nguyen, SVD, Provincial Admonitor of the Western Province; and Fr. John Szukalski, SVD, General Assistant Secretary for Education of the Society of the Divine Word.

This year’s National Assembly also marked the 70th anniversary of the CMSM, celebrating seven decades of promoting collaboration, leadership, and service among men’s religious institutes in the United States.

The CMSM brings together religious congregations, monasteries, and societies of apostolic life to foster communion among their members and to discern the signs of the times in an ever-changing world. Through prayer, dialogue, and shared reflection, the Conference continues to support religious leaders in responding faithfully and creatively to the mission of the Church today.