Groups of General Archivists in Rome

For many years, archivists from our congregations have been meeting periodically to discuss their work and to deepen their knowledge and skills in the archival profession.

At present, there are two groups of archivists: an anglophone group and a francophone group. They meet regularly on a monthly basis, although separately.

Most of the archivists we know have been appointed without specific professional training. While some have had the opportunity to attend courses organized by well-established archival associations, the majority receive their formation "on the job". This situation highlights the importance of these regular meetings.

The aims of the groups are to:

• provide professional training and formation

• discuss common problems and questions in order to support one another

• share experiences and best practices

• learn how other archives are organized

During the year, the groups also visit various archival institutions, whether Congregational, Dicasterial or Italian. From time to time, external speakers are invited to address specific topics (for example, a historian speaking on "Writing the history of a religious congregation: the meeting of archivist and historian").

Contacts:

The Group of English-speaking Archivists of Rome (AESA)
Contact person: Sr. Gisela Schreyer smnda, gen.archives@msolafrica.org

The Group of French Archivists of Rome (G.A.F.R.)
Meeting on the second Monday of the month, among missionaries from Africa, Via Aurelia
Contact person: Mr. Wandrille de Floris, archives@cenacle-gen.org