An Inspiring Synodal Experience at the 3rd PACTPAN Congress

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 of the congress was: “Journeying together in hope as a Church family of God in Africa.” After its inaugural Congress in Enugu, Nigeria, in 2019 and a second in Nairobi, this assembly in Ivory Coast was a crucial moment for founding members and newcomers alike to reflect on our journey and chart a path forward. For founding members like myself, assessing our journey and charting a path forward was an inspiring moment. In this brief article, I present my impressions of this third Congress as a participant and member of PACTPAN.

The Journey of PACTPAN: From Enugu to Abidjan

The Network has evolved significantly since its inception. The growth isn’t just numerical; it has broadened its focus, composition, action, plans, and impact. After the Enugu Congress, the network organized itself into research units. In Nairobi, we saw the beginnings of these units, including: Vital Church, Synodality, Women, “Let the little children come to me,” and an emerging unit on Sexual Minorities. Researchers and pastoral agents presented papers within these four themes.

A Lived Experience of Synodality

The Abidjan Congress, however, revealed something even more profound: a lived experience of synodality. It provided tangible evidence that synodality is not only possible but also profoundly beneficial for the Church in Africa. What was most outstanding was PACTPAN’s unwavering commitment to inclusivity. This congress was composed of scholars, clergy, and church leaders and young men and women who were key actors in its organization and presentations. The youth, for example, made powerful presentations and showcased their impact in units like the Research unit on the Fight against Human Trafficking. The congress was enriched with perspectives from lay men and women, youth, women religious, priests, bishops, and cardinals.

One unforgettable moment was witnessing the President of SECAM, Cardinal Fridolin Ambango, listening intently not to what young people needed from the Church, but rather to what they are doing and can do in the Church for humanity. We all had moments to listen to and learn from each other.

This congress adopted a relational approach to conversation, ensuring that presentations and discussions were not limited to any specific group. All topics were enriched by the views and perspectives of people from different generations, countries, cultures, continents, genders, and vocations. This ecumenical encounter was further strengthened by the adoption of African Palaver as the network’s method for conversation. The Palaver allows everyone to speak freely and contribute without fear of not being taken seriously, moving beyond a simple question-and-answer session. It was a truly synodal encounter.

Conclusion

Gratitude echoed through the halls of the Catholic University of West Africa in Abidjan. This gratitude stems from the congress’s success, its ability to bear fruits of hope, and the positive growth of our network. We are grateful for our leaders’ courage and the enduring inspiration of our coordinating servant, Prof. Stan Chu Ilo. We acknowledge the room for improvement and are thankful for our collaborations with people from different Churches.

Most heartening was the collective resolve of all attendees to continue this journey together toward the next congress in Cameroon in 2027. PACTPAN stands ready to advance the emergence of a synodal Church in Africa and the Universal Church. We are a synodal people who celebrate with joy what the Lord has done and is doing in and through us.