❝ This gives me great hope, not only for Africa, but for the future of the Church throughout the world.” — Fr. Dowling The III PACTPAN Congress in Abidjan transformed into a vibrant intercontinental dialogue, drawing together Church leaders, theologians, clergy, and laity from Africa, Europe, and North America. Far more than a reunion, the event became a crucible for…
❝ Out of Africa can rise a hope capable of reawakening the whole Church” — Stan Chu Ilo In a recent essay, Carlos Lopes warned of the “structural exhaustion” of the global order. Once-stable arrangements like free trade, multilateral institutions, and geopolitical balance are visibly fraying. Rising protectionism, populist nationalism, climate disruption, and deepening inequality have shaken the rules that…
From Abidjan to South Sudan and Nigeria to Zambia, youth leaders, survivors, and the Church unite to confront modern slavery and build a future of faith, dignity, and transformation. ❝ If we walk together, we can transform obstacles into opportunities.” — Lucien Djodssounoukoun A Congress of Resolve in Abidjan The humid air of Abidjan could not dampen the electric atmosphere…
In a landmark moment for African Catholicism, the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM) unveiled a sweeping 25-year strategic vision at the III Pan-African Catholic Jubilee Congress (PACTPAN) in Abidjan. The plan, described by Church leaders as a transformative roadmap, aims to redefine the African Church’s role in evangelisation, leadership, self-reliance, and societal renewal. Developed through years…
The III Pan-African Catholic Congress revealed five surprising gifts that show how Africa can help reinvent the Church’s mission and prophetic witness for the 21st century. ❝ “The footprints of God in Africa trace the path toward a flourishing future shaped by an African Church confident in her gifts. This is a Church that invests in her own assets, renews…
Introduction The Pan-African Catholic Theology and Pastoral Network (PACTPAN) is a community in motion, a testament to the power of a synodal Church in Africa. The network’s 3rd Congress, held in Abidjan from August 5 to 10, 2025, was a profound “lived experience of synodality.” Guided by the spirit of the Synod on Synodality and the Jubilee Year, the theme…
At the III Pan-African Catholic Jubilee Congress in Abidjan, a bold and inspiring message emerged; one that challenges the long-standing portrayal of Africa as a continent of despair. The “Hope for Africa” declaration is more than a statement; it’s a manifesto for transformation. It envisions the African Church not as a follower, but as a global leader—demanding transparency, accountability, and…
Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire – August 09, 2025 The Church in Africa, through the voices of the members of the Pan-African Catholic Theology and Pastoral Network, has once again raised its voice in prayer and commitment to proclaim that it is not just a Church that carries the weight of history but also the promise of the future. After five days…
Issued at the Conclusion of the III Pan-African Catholic Jubilee Congress on Theology, Society, and Pastoral Life Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire — August 10, 2025 Preamble: A Jubilee of Hope for Africa and the World We, the delegates of the III Pan-African Catholic Jubilee Congress: bishops, priests, deacons, consecrated women and men, lay leaders, theologians, youth, Catholic communicators, and partners in…
Abidjan – August 8, 2025 Celebration of Hidden History At the III PACTPAN Jubilee Congress of the Pan-African Theology, Society, and Pastoral Life in Abidjan, the quiet and unnoticed strength of African Catholic women of faith is finally stepping into the light. For decades, they have built communities, nurtured hope, and served the Church with devotion, often without recognition. Now,…