The Partner Newspaper

Kigali in Riwanda played host to over 250 representatives from Catholic Churches across Africa this week for the 20th Plenary Assembly of the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM). The gathering, taking place from July 30th to August 4th, brings together Cardinals, Bishops, priests, religious men and women, and lay leaders, alongside international partner organizations. SECAM, the unifying body for all Catholic bishops in Africa and Madagascar, aims to “promote the Church’s role as an instrument of salvation and building the Church as a Family of God in Africa by fostering communion, collaboration, and joint action among all the Episcopal Conferences of Africa and its islands,” explained SECAM president Fridolin Cardinal Ambongo, Archbishop of Kinshasa.

Under the theme “Christ, Source of Hope, Reconciliation, and Peace,” this year’s assembly will assess the progress achieved since the previous assembly held in Accra, Ghana, in 2022. A significant item on the agenda for the 2025 Assembly is the presentation of SECAM’s long-term vision document for the same year. This vision is structured around twelve foundational pillars, encompassing crucial areas such as evangelization, family leadership, youth engagement, environmental stewardship, digital outreach, and political responsibility. Discussions will also delve into pastoral reflections on supporting Catholics navigating “complex cultural realities,” including polygamous unions.

Furthermore, the assembly will address critical topics such as governance, justice, peace, interfaith dialogue, climate change, and safeguarding. A major highlight of the 20th Plenary Assembly will be the unveiling of SECAM’s Triennial Strategic Plan for 2025-2028. The assembly will also mark the commencement of the leadership renewal process for SECAM, conducted in accordance with the organization’s constitution.