St. Jean Parish, Cocody, Abidjan – 6 August 2025
The African Church took a bold step into a new chapter of spiritual renewal and theological reflection as the III Panafrican Catholic Jubilee Congress on Theology, Society, and Pastoral Life (PACTPAN) commenced with a solemn and stirring Opening Mass at St. Jean Parish in Cocody, Abidjan.
Presiding over the liturgy, Cardinal Ignace Bessi delivered an inspiring, Spirit-filled homily that resonated deeply with the faithful, theologians, and clergy gathered. His voice rang through the sanctuary like a prophetic call, framing the journey of the Transfiguration as both a radiant ascent and a rugged descent—a paradoxical path leading through suffering to glory.
“The Transfiguration signifies Christ’s glory through the cross,” Cardinal Bessi proclaimed. “Without the cross, there is no glory.”
He emphasized that Christ’s glorification came through obedience and deep listening to the Father, urging theologians to embody that same posture of humility and attentiveness.
“A good theologian listens to God before he speaks and speaks because he listens,” he said, cautioning against the temptation to rationalize faith without first being rooted in divine dialogue.
Cardinal Bessi called on the African Church to raise theologians who are uncompromising in truth, forged in faith, and culturally grounded. He challenged participants to embrace synodality not as a borrowed concept, but as an authentically African gift—woven into the continent’s cultural fabric and communal ethos.
PACTPAN Coordinating Servant Inspires with Message of Light and Hope
In a moving address, the Coordinating Servant of PACTPAN, Fr. Prof. Stan Chu Ilo, invoked the metaphor of light and hope, urging participants to see themselves as “pilgrims of hope” bearing the light of Christ in a world yearning for transformation.
“Hope has a face,” he declared. “And it is the face of Christ who is resurrected.”
Amidst the euphoria of joy and community that enveloped the Church, he added:
“We celebrate an African Church that is alive. It is in hope that we move forward.
He who has hope is one who lives in Christ.”
A Synodal Journey of Diversity and Communion
The Opening Mass was more than a liturgical celebration—it was a convergence of cultures, voices, and visions. The atmosphere was charged with joy and fraternity, marking a decisive moment in the African Church’s synodal journey. As the winds of synodality sweep across the continent, the Congress is reimagining the Church’s role in society, opening new pathways for spiritual renewal and theological engagement.
The III PACTPAN Congress continues to be a sign of transformation—inviting the African Church to walk together in faith, attentive listening, and hope.
1 comment
I did not participate as I didn’t get the chance to know on time when the meeting was supposed to be.
But it’s good that you have gathered all for this noble cause. Fr Charles kaganda – masaka Diocese Uganda