Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire – August 7
In a bold and transformative gathering at the Pan-African Catholic Theology and Pastoral Network (PACTPAN) Jubilee Congress in Abidjan, leading African theologians, bishops, and pastoral agents called for a reimagined Church in Africa—one that speaks with its own voice, walks together in synodality, and reclaims its cultural and spiritual identity.
From Rome to Africa: A Palaver of Voices
The session, provocatively themed “From Pope Francis to Pope Leo: An African Palaver on the Synod on Synodality,” was anything but abstract. It was a vibrant exchange of ideas, critiques, and visions for a Church that no longer waits for direction from Rome but asserts its own spiritual and pastoral agency.
Fr. Ikenna Okafor described the Church as a family built not on perfection but on mercy and communal strength. Invoking the Ubuntu philosophy—“I am because we are”—he called for a return to the early Christian spirit of love and compassion. “Without compassion and the Holy Spirit, unity becomes impossible,” he said.
Fr. Stan Chu Ilo warned against a Church that wounds rather than heals. “People need a Church that feels like home, not a place that bruises them,” he said, urging clergy to embrace empathy and proximity in their pastoral roles.
Synodality Must Be Lived, Not Just Preached
Martine Gokra emphasized the need for structured lay involvement and pastoral accountability. “Synodality will not work unless we invest in it—at the parish, diocesan, and continental levels,” she said, calling for honest conversations about power and participation.
Fr. Matthew Agbai challenged the Church to reinterpret synodality through African traditions of dialogue and consensus. “We must not just adopt synodality. We must own it,” he declared, urging theologians to ensure African realities are reflected in the final Synod documents.
Fr. Vitalis Anaehobi echoed this sentiment, noting that synodality is not foreign to Africa but has lacked formal structure. He advocated for translated synod documents in local languages and stressed the urgency of moving from discernment to action: “It’s not enough to talk and plan. We must do.”
A Blueprint for the Future: The Palaver Series
Fr. Augustine Anwuchie introduced The Palaver Series on the Future of the Church in Africa, a new book published by African Catholic Press. Based on a 14-week online dialogue among theologians, clergy, and laity, the volume offers practical solutions to faith and socio-political challenges.
“This book is not just a record of dialogue,” Fr. Anwuchie said. “It is a blueprint, a mirror of the African Church’s voice rooted in community, spirituality, and shared wisdom.” The series calls for a shift from needs-based to asset-based ministry, affirming indigenous strength and reducing reliance on foreign aid.
Toward an African Church That Walks Together
Throughout the Congress, one message rang clear: synodality must be more than a theological concept—it must be a lived reality. Rooted in prayer, discernment, and the Spirit, it must shape how decisions are made and how the Church engages its people.
As the global Church continues its journey through the Synod process, the African palaver offers not just critique but vision. It reminds the world of an ancient truth: if you want to walk far, walk together.
