A jubilee and new momentum for the Assumptionists

Paradoxically for a congregation which founded a press group – Bayard, publisher of Le Pèlerin – before entrusting it to lay people, the Augustinians of the Assumption remain little known to the public. However, with 915 religious and 45 novices spread across 33 countries, the latter were able to carry beyond France the desire for evangelization of their founder, Father Emmanuel d’Alzon (1810-1880).

“It’s true, we are rather discreet,” smiles Father Fabien Lejeusne (photo), 49, appointed on July 15 at the head of the Province of Europe, which oversees 19 countries. “But our original charisma is very much alive, as shown by the strength of the bond forged by Le Pèlerin with its readers!”