By Fr. Anthony Adetayo

Cardinals, Archbishops, Bishops, Priests, Consecrated persons and Laity from across West Africa under the umbrella of the Reunion of Episcopal Conferences of West Africa (RECOWA), and Conferencias Episcopais Reunidas Da Africa Ocidental (CERAO) have concluded their 5th Plenary Assembly with a strong message emphasizing peace, the development of a more collaborative “synodal” Church, and the need for greater self-reliance within the region’s Catholic communities. The Conference which brought together 148 participants, met in Dakar, Senegal from May 5th to 12th under the theme: “For a synodal and Self-reliant Church at the service of justice and peace in West Africa.”

The assembly’s message, released on Good Shepherd Sunday, expressed joy over the recent election of Pope Leo XIV and offered prayers for a fruitful pontificate. The Bishops underscored the theme of synodality, calling for a renewed way of being Church characterized by shared responsibility, listening, and dialogue among all baptized members. They emphasized that this should be built on mutual trust and respect for diverse charisms.

A key focus of the assembly was the concept of a self-sustaining Church, one that increasingly relies on its own spiritual, human, cultural, and material resources rather than solely depending on external support. The Bishops stressed that this autonomy fosters greater shared responsibility and allows the Church to better adapt its actions to the specific needs of local communities. They also highlighted the crucial role of transparency, virtuous management, and solidarity in achieving this goal.

Addressing the persistent challenges of conflict in West Africa, the RECOWA Bishops issued a passionate call for a peaceful and conflict-free region. They emphasized the need to prioritize dialogue, justice, and education, recognizing diversity as a source of strength. Specific recommendations included integrating peace education into school curricula, promoting inter-community dialogue, developing inclusive economies, reforming the security sector with a focus on human rights, combating corruption and extremism, and strengthening regional cooperation. They called for education and awareness initiatives, particularly targeting youth and marginalized communities.

Finally, the Bishops urged a healthy approach to governance within both the Church and state, emphasizing integrity, accountability, and civic participation. They concluded with a call to conversion, encouraging all people of goodwill to be “lights” in their communities, especially in spaces like social media.

The RECOWA delegates expressed their gratitude to the Senegalese government and people for their warm hospitality and acknowledged the work of the assembly organizers. They prayed that their churches would become living instruments of synodality, peace, justice, and reconciliation.

The message was signed Most Rev Alexis Touabli Youlo; President of RECOWA, and the Secretary General of RECOWA; Rev. Fr. Vitalis Anaehobi

Full publication of their message is found below