February 26, 27, 28, 2026
This three days colloquium honors the life and legacy of Fr. Vincent Machozi, A.A., a Catholic priest, humanitarian, and human rights advocate whose courageous work continues to inspire the Assumptionist mission.
Day one
The first day open with a day of thoughtful dialogue and shared commitment to justice and peace. Scholars, practitioners, and faith communities gathered to reflect on the intersections of climate change, environmental justice, and conflict transformation across the African continent.
Key Reflections from Day One
A highlight of the opening day was the presentation by Dr. Dana Robert, who reflected on Fr. Machozi’s life story and its deep connection to the Assumptionist charism. Her insights invited participants to consider how faith communities can respond meaningfully to contemporary environmental and social challenges.
Voices from the Assumptionist Mission
Our own Tomasz Jaster spoke about the current situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), sharing hopeful news that Assumptionist schools there continue to grow and serve their communities well — a strong sign of hope amid ongoing challenges and a testament to the Church’s commitment to education and peacebuilding.
A Beginning Rooted in Hope
Through engaging presentations and discussions, Day One established a strong foundation for continued dialogue and collaboration. The colloquium fostered reflection and solidarity, encouraging peacemaking grounded in faith, justice, and shared responsibility.
Day Two
As conversations continue into Day Two, the Fr. Vincent Machozi Colloquium reminds us that scholarship, faith, and action can come together in the pursuit of healing and lasting peace.
Climate Justice and Ecological Reflection
Sessions throughout the day explored climate justice and activism, encouraging participants to reflect on the ethical dimensions of environmental challenges. Discussions on ecological flourishing and reforestation highlighted the importance of restoring both the natural world and human communities through shared responsibility and care for creation.
Faith, Dialogue, and Peacebuilding
The colloquium also examined the role of theologically informed social movements and how faith traditions can inspire meaningful social change. The day concluded with a plenary address by Dr. Ambaye Ogato, who reflected on Ethiopia’s national dialogue and the reimagining of peacebuilding through inclusive participation.
Continuing the Legacy
The evening ended with shared fellowship over dinner, allowing conversations to continue in a spirit of community. Day Two stood as a powerful reminder of Fr. Vincent Machozi’s vision, fostering dialogue, encouraging reflection, and strengthening a shared commitment to justice and peace.
Day Three
The final day of the Fr. Vincent Machozi Colloquium at Boston University’s School of Theology brought participants together for reflection on peacebuilding, faith, and social transformation.
A Plenary Reflection on Social Love
The day featured a plenary address by Dr. Emmanuel Katongole of the University of Notre Dame, who invited participants to consider the role of what he described as “social love.” His reflections explored how communities and institutions can embody love in ways that foster reconciliation, justice, and peace.
Drawing on theological insight and lived experiences from communities facing conflict and injustice, the presentation highlighted the importance of cultivating practices of solidarity, dialogue, and hope.
Continuing the Legacy of Fr. Vincent Machozi
Throughout the day, discussions returned to the witness of Fr. Vincent Machozi, whose commitment to truth, justice, and peace continues to inspire the work of scholars and practitioners around the world. The conversations reflected on how faith traditions can contribute meaningfully to addressing ecological challenges, social conflict, and the pursuit of human dignity.
Looking Ahead
As the colloquium concluded, participants carried forward a renewed sense of mission to imagine communities shaped by compassion, justice, and reconciliation. The gathering affirmed the importance of scholarship, faith, and activism working together in the ongoing task of peacemaking.
The Fr. Vincent Machozi Colloquium stands as a testament to the enduring vision of the Assumptionists: to serve the Church and the world through dialogue, commitment to justice, and the pursuit of peace.