In the heart of the American South, the 2025 La Salette Laity Summit brought together hundreds of lay individuals, religious, and Missionaries of Our Lady of La Salette from across the country and beyond for a weekend of reflection, renewal, and re-commitment. Hosted by La Salette parishes near Atlanta, Georgia (St. Thomas the Apostle in Smyrna, St. Oliver Plunkett in Snellville and St. Ann in Marietta), the summit served as a beacon of connection for those dedicated to living out the message of reconciliation first shared by Our Lady at La Salette in 1846.
The theme of this triennial event was “Pilgrims of Hope”, drawn from both La Salette spirituality and Pope Francis’ vision for the Church as a people journeying together in faith. The La Salette message—centered on conversion, prayer, and a deep trust in God’s mercy—aligns with this idea. Pilgrims of Hope are individuals or communities who walk in solidarity with the suffering, carry and share hope in broken or divided places, and embody the call to reconciliation, which is the hallmark of La Salette’s charism.
Daily keynote speakers, both in English and Spanish languages, reminded attendees that “Our Lady did not speak only to Maximin and Mélanie—she speaks still, through each of us, when we listen with compassion and act with courage.” Keynote discussion groups considered ways to “Make Mary’s Message Known” in all aspects of our lives.
Lay leaders, as well as clergy, presented breakout sessions about ministries, vocations, missionary experiences and laity cooperation. Their talks underscored the power of ordinary people to become extraordinary agents of healing and reconciliation.
Each day of the summit was framed by vibrant liturgical celebrations, highlighted by a bilingual Mass presided over by Cardinal Álvaro Leonel Ramazzini Imeri, Bishop of Huehuetenango (Guatemala).
As the 2025 La Salette Laity Summit concluded, participants returned to their homes and ministries energized and united to share their experiences. Plans for 2028 La Salette Laity Summit have been announced, to be hosted by the National Shrine and La Salette parishes in New England.
In a world thirsting for healing, the La Salette Laity Summit reminded all in attendance that the message of the Weeping Mother still resounds—not with sorrow, but with hope that reconciliation begins with each of us. For more information on La Salette Laity, visit www.lasalettelaity.org.
