32 priests gathered as delegates for the North American Territorial Assembly of the Legionaries of Christ September 2-5, 2025, at the Augustine Institute, situated along the banks of the Missouri River, to prayerfully discern the input that this territory wants to provide to the 2026 Ordinary General Chapter coming up in January 2026 in Rome. The North American territory is one of nine Legionary territories globally, and includes the United States, Canada, the Philippines, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand. The delegates ranged widely in age and represented six nationalities of origin.
Together as Brothers
The Assembly was grounded in prayer, beginning each morning with the Veni Creator hymn and concluding each evening with Eucharistic adoration. Throughout the day, the Angelus and the Liturgy of the Hours punctuated their work sessions. This rhythm of prayer fostered peace, fraternity, an intentionality in listening to the Holy Spirit, and a deep appreciation for their shared vocation as Legionaries. In a letter to all Legionaries in the Territory the Assembly wrote as it closed, it reflected, “We can sincerely say that it has been a joy to be together as brothers.”
Listen to the Veni Creator from the Territorial Assembly
Unlike past assemblies that sometimes responded to pressing crises, this Assembly was marked by a forward-looking spirit. Over four plenary sessions each day, the delegates discussed and voted on 150 draft propositions submitted for consideration at the upcoming General Chapter by Legionaries across the Territory. The conversations, though at times intense and representative of differing views, were consistently rooted in sincere listening and fraternal charity. The Assembly shared that they valued the opportunity to “learn from one another’s perspectives, and work collaboratively to refine ideas and forge a common path.”
Topics of discernment included formation, apostolic zeal and missionary discernment, living poverty in a consumer-driven culture, and fostering mature community life. Although discussions at the Assembly were focused on the designated themes of the upcoming General Chapter, the Territory continues to work intentionally on other areas of deep significance including evangelization of and ministry to families, accompanying young men in vocational discernment, and continuing to build a culture and structures that enable healthy and safe environments.
With the Assembly’s work complete, attention now turns to the upcoming General Chapter to be held in January 2026 in Rome. Delegates urged all members of the North American Territory to pray for wisdom and guidance in the upcoming voting process that will determine the territory’s representatives at the Chapter.
“May Christ, our King, continue to guide and bless us all,” the delegates wrote in closing, entrusting the fruit of the Assembly to the Lord.
