Following their first annual meeting held from February 11-14, 2025, the Standing Committee of the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM) has called upon the church across Africa to unite in prayer in response to the continent’s ongoing conflicts.
In their message, titled “Christ, Source of Hope, Reconciliation and Peace,” they have expressed concern for the suffering endured by many Africans due to conflicts fueled by the desire to control the continent’s rich mineral resources.
“We know that Africa’s rich mineral deposits, truly a potential source of prosperity, have instead continued to be a source of conflict. The desire to control and appropriate these resources motivates powerful nations and multinational corporations to fund armed factions in some African countries”
They cited countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Nigeria, Mozambique, and Sudan as examples.
Affirming the Church’s commitment to standing with Africans affected by these conflicts, they said, “We acknowledge the immense suffering that many of our brothers and sisters are enduring due to conflicts, violence, massacres and instability in various parts of our continent. To all who are bereaved and suffering, we say: “you are not forgotten”, The Church has not abandoned you. We stand with you, pray for you, and continue to call for justice, peace, and reconciliation.”
Reiterating Pope Francis’ message during his visit to Kinshasa, who urged an end to the exploitation of Africa’s resources, SECAM declared, “Hands off Africa! Stop choking Africa; it is not a mine to be stripped or a terrain to be plundered.”
They have also urged the faithful within and beyond the church in the continent to maintain unity and peace.
“We urge all people of goodwill-within the Church and beyond to be instruments of peace, choosing dialogue over division, love over hatred, and hope over despair.”
In response, SECAM has invited all dioceses, parishes, and religious communities to participate in a triduum of prayer and fasting from March 3rd to 5th, 2025 according to their local customs.
They are calling upon all people of goodwill to join in prayer for peace, particularly for regions suffering from conflict such as Eastern Congo.
By: Veronica Sena Amenya//Newswatchgh.com
