Swaziland Catholic Women Leader Says Women are Backbone of Society

Vatican Radio || By Rudolph Nyamudo || 27 May 2015

Ernestina Nxumalo, President of the Council of Catholic Women in Swaziland says that when the family is strong and based on principles of the Church, society benefits.

“We have to start in the family. For the next four years, we intend in Swaziland to work towards giving hope to women. We need to give hope especially to rural women.” Ernestina Nxumalo said this when she spoke to Vatican Radio’s Head of the English Service for Africa, Fr. Paul Samasumo at the recent Second International Conference on Women held in Rome over the weekend.

The event was organised by the World Union of Women’s Catholic Organisations and the World Women’s Alliance for Life and Family in conjunction with the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace. The conference had as its theme, “Women and the post-2015 development agenda: The challenges of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).”

Speaking as a delegate from Swaziland, Ernestina Nxumalo pointed out that the international conference was looking at the challenges that are faced by women in light of the just ended Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). In the place of MDGs, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are in the process of being introduced. According to Nxumalo, poverty and illiteracy are some of the challenges that women in Swaziland are facing. 

“Many women in rural areas of Africa and Swaziland in particular are not educated and rely on subsistence farming for their survival. However, the land is not giving back much yield and this has led to an increase in malnutrition especially among children,” Nxumalo said. 

Nxumalo said that development well-targeted at women in Africa is vital because, “Women are the back bone of the African society. Women are also able to contribute in making the world a better society for all,” she said.

With regard to the family in Swaziland, Nxumalo pointed out the fact that many women now have to work to provide for their families and this has had a negative effect on the fabric of Swazi family life.

“The woman’s role is no longer limited to the traditional chores of taking care of children. As Catholics, we should not abandon our moral values and the principles of the Church.  Unfortunately, now it is caregivers and child minders that are left to instill moral values to our children because parents are often away working – sometimes for longer periods,” Nxumalo lamented.

Nevertheless, Nxumalo spoke proudly about the vibrancy of Catholic women’s organisations in Swaziland.  She was also happy that the Church’s hierarchy in Swaziland is very supportive of women’s organisations and their activities.

Swaziland, officially known as the Kingdom of Swaziland is an absolute monarchy. Thus, the country’s head of state is King Mswati III. Swaziland has an approximate radius of 200 kilometres and is one of the smallest countries in Africa. Mostly surrounded by South Africa, it also shares a border with Mozambique. 

Ghanaian Bishop wants Initiatives toward Ecumenism and Self-Reliance in His Diocese

CANAA || By Damian Avevor || 28 May 2015

Bishop Joseph Osei-Bonsu of the Catholic diocese of Konongo-Mampong in Ghana has expressed the desire to have the Catholic faithful in his diocese take ecumenism seriously, recognizing the signs of the times.

Bishop Osei-Bonsu was speaking during the convocation of the first Diocesan Synod on Monday, May 25, whose theme is: The Catholic Diocese of Konongo-Mampong in Retrospect: Prospects, Challenges and the Way Forward.

The 10-day long Synod is being held at the Spiritan University, Ejisu.

Bishop Osei-Bonsu expects the Synod Fathers to come up with concrete proposals regarding more methods of collaboration besides the common ecumenical celebrations in Ghana such as the Christian Home Week, Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, and the Bible Week.

He called on all Christians to realize that they are living in a religiously pluralistic society, highlighting Islam and African Traditional Religions as the other prominent religions in Ghana.

“We must find ways of dialoguing with them, especially with Islam. In Christian‑Muslim dialogues both sides must take great care to respect the principle of religious freedom with all its implications, including also external and public expressions of that faith. We must denounce unfair policies and practices and the lack of reciprocity in matters pertaining to religious freedom.” Bishop Osei-Bonsu said.

In dialoguing with Muslims, he cautioned against “naive romanticism” that does not take note of the threat of Islamic fanaticism and noted that dialogue with Muslims does not mean a moratorium on conversion.

“Christians are required to listen to Muslims about their beliefs and opinions so that they can effectively communicate the Gospel to them in a way that does not arouse their anger and hatred,” Bishop Osei-Bonsu clarified.

Speaking about self-reliance, the Bishop told the Synod Fathers that financial support from Europe and North America has drastically dwindled.

“In recent times, many particular churches or dioceses in Africa and in other Third World countries have seen the need to be self-reliant,” he said adding that many local Churches in African are making initiatives toward getting “rid of the dependency syndrome that has up to now characterized their lives.”

He recalled the 1995 Special Assembly for Africa, Ecclesia in Africa, where the theme of self-sufficiency was addressed (104) saying it was urgent for local churches in Africa to provide for their own needs.

The Diocese of Konongo-Mampong was erected on March 3, 1995 with territory taken from the then Kumasi Diocese (now Kumasi Archdiocese) and from the Diocese of Sunyani.

Final editing by CANAA

AMECEA Initiates the Construction of a Commercial Complex

CANAA || By Fr. Don Bosco Onyalla || 28 May 2015

The Executive Board of the Association of Member Episcopal Conferences in Eastern Africa (AMECEA) last Tuesday initiated the construction of the AMECEA Commercial Complex through a grounding-breaking ceremony.

The Tuesday late morning event was officiated by the Chairman of AMECEA Executive Board, Berhaneyesus Cardinal Souraphiel, the Metropolitan Archbishop of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

The multi-million U.S. dollar Complex is being realized on a 1.5-acre land adjacent to AMECEA Secretariat along Gitanga Road within the Nairobi’s Lavington area, with ABC as the financing bank and Powerful Company Limited as the main contractor.

According to the project Architect, Peter Opon, the Complex will be a 12-storey building designed as a mixed urban project.

The Complex will have basement parking for 532 cars, a supermarket, coffee shops, conference facilities, and executive apartments comprising of 36 one-bedroom, 22 two-bedroom and five three-bedroom apartments.

AMECEA Executive Board members, the Chairman of the Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA) Council, Bishop Maurice Muhatia of Nakuru, Kenya, the President of the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM), Archbishop Gabriel Mbilingi of Lubango, Angola, and SECAM Secretary General, Father Joseph Komakoma, were among the Church dignitaries in attendance.

The official aid agency of the Catholic Church in England and Wales CAFOD and the Catholic Relief Service (CRS) were represented at the ground-breaking ceremony.

In his key note speech, AMECEA Chairman alluded to the unity of purpose and collaboration among Church structures in AMECEA regions in realizing the project and confirmed that all countries within the region “are going to contribute to build and share in the future also in resources for the betterment of other activities, which each nation is going to start in its own circumstances”

The eventual proceeds from the project are meant to benefit the “people with whom the Church is very close, the migrants, the refugees, marginalized people,” AMECEA Chairman assured.

John Cardinal Njue of Nairobi, Chair of AMECEA Financial Committee, described the project as a step towards self-reliance saying, “When it is fully completed it will become instrumental in making AMECEA to be self-reliant and to make the region capable of continuing with its mission.”

The representative of the anchor tenant, Tusker Mattress Limited, justified the partnership with AMECEA saying, “One of our core values is actually healthy living, so we basically don’t sell cigarettes, we don’t sell alcohol.”

“Who else can be our best partner than the Catholic Church?” the anchor tenant representative rhetorically questioned.

The timeframe for the completion of the AMECEA Commercial Complex is estimated to be 24 months at a total cost of about 1.5 Billion Kenya Shilling.

Meanwhile on Friday, May 29, Berhaneyesus Cardinal Souraphiel is set to preside over the graduation ceremony at CUEA in his capacity as the Chancellor of the Nairobi-based AMECEA Institution of Higher Learning.

Correction: Kenya Beatification Not the First on the African Soil

CANAA || By Fr. Don Bosco Onyalla || 28 May 2015

The recent beatification of Sr. Irene Stefani, which took place in the Kenyan town of Nyeri on Saturday, May 23, was not the first on the African soil as was reported in our CANAA News Updates of May 25, 2015.

Prior to the beatification of Sr. Irene Stefani, the African continent had already witnessed other beatifications, particularly presided over by St. Pope John Paul II.

The Kenya beatification was the second nun beatification to take place on the African soil.

Blessed Anuarite

The first nun beatification on the African soil took place on August 15, 1985, when Pope John Paul II beatified Sr. Marie-Clementine Anuarite during his visit to the DR Congo.

Named by her parents as Nengapeta Alphonsine Anuarite, Blessed Marie-Clementine chose, at the young age of 23, to die rather than give in to the forcible violation of her vow of chastity.

Blessed Anuarite’s legacy is in her act of forgiveness and faith.

During the beatification occasion, Pope John Paul II expressed pardon for Blessed Anuarite’s attacker, recounting that Blessed Anuarite, like Jesus Christ, had forgiven him in the words, “I forgive you for you know not what you are doing.”

She was martyred because she had resisted the soldier’s attempted rape.

It is reported that the attacker, Colonel Pierre Colombe, who had been educated by missionaries, had asked publicly for the Pope’s healing words.

Blessed Anuarite has been a deep source of inspiration for the members of her religious congregation of the Holy Family Sisters as well as many of the Congolese people in their effort to recover from years of tribulations.

Among the witnesses of Blessed Anuarite’s beatification were her elderly parents, Amisi Batsuru Batobobo and Isude Julienne.

Blessed Anuarite’s Feast Day is on December 1, the date of her death.

Blessed Tansi

Another beatification on the African soil took place in Nigeria in 1998.

On March 22, 1998, Pope John Paul II beatified Father Cyprian Michael Iwene Tansi at Onitsha, during the Papal visit to Nigeria.

Blessed Tansi was a Nigerian ordained a priest of the Archdiocese of Onitsha in Nigeria, later a Cistercian Monk at Mount Saint Bernard Monastery in England.

Pope John Paul II is reported to have said, "Blessed Cyprian Michael Tansi is a prime example of the fruits of holiness which have grown and matured in the Church in Nigeria since the Gospel was first preached in this land. He received the gift of faith through the efforts of the missionaries, and taking the Christian way of life as his own he made it truly African and Nigerian."

Blessed Tansi’s care for the people committed to him in the Archdiocese of Onitsha made him ardent in propagating devotion to the Sacred Heart, to Our Lady, and the Rosary.

His beatification had been recommended by Francis Cardinal Arinze of Nigeria.

Cardinal Arinze had been one of Tansi’s students, knew him personally, and had been inspired by him.

The prayer to Blessed Tansi is: Blessed Cyprian, during your life on earth you showed your great faith and love in giving yourself to your people and by the hidden life of prayer and contemplation. Look upon us now in our needs, and intercede for us with the Lord. May he grant us the favour we ask through our prayers. Amen.

Blessed Cyprian's Feast Day is on January 20.

A unique beatification

Previous beatifications on the African soil had been presided over by the Pontiff.

The uniqueness of Blessed Irene Stefani’s beatification is in the fact that it was carried out by a papal delegate, in the person of Polycarp Cardinal Pengo, Archbishop of Dar Salam, Tanzania.

The Saturday momentous occasion brought together the Church and the State in Kenya, with Kenya’s political leadership eschewing politics in speeches, and using the occasion to preach unity in diversity after the example of Blessed Irene Stefani.

The process to beatify Servant of God Maurice Cardinal Otunga, former Archbishop of Nairobi, is under way.

If all goes well, the Catholic Church in Kenya will witness yet another beatification.

Workshop Highlights Collaboration among Religious in Nigeria

Catholic News Service of Nigeria || 22 May 2015

Active collaboration between the people of Consecrated life, Societies of Apostolic life, Priests and other Catholic groups has been described as a necessary tool for the realization of the evangelization mission of the Church in the country. This recommendation was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the 2015 National Seminaries Committee Workshop held recently at the Pope John Paul II Major Seminary, Okpuno, Awka, Anambra State.

The theme of the workshop was: The Consecrated Life in the Mission of the Church and attended by rectors and other participants from Minor, Spiritual Year and Major Seminaries in the country. The workshop was part of the activities marking the universal Year of Consecrated Life celebration declared by the Holy Father Pope Francis. The communiqué was jointly signed by Most Rev. Michael Apochi, Bishop of Otukpo and CBCN Episcopal Chairman of the Committee and Rev. Fr. Paul K. Oredipe, Secretary.

According to the participants at the workshop: “There is need for deeper attentiveness, ongoing training and consistent practice of active collaboration in the Church, especially between Dioceses and Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic life.”

They described this relationship as a call to true mutual exchange of resources within the Church for the realization of the spread of the spirituality of communion, first in their internal life and in the ecclesial community. They contended that: “Such regular sharing of experiences and reflections on successes and setbacks will be pastorally effective.” ‘

This collaboration and cooperation, among other things will help curtail occasional conflicts and mutual suspicions, the members of the committee noted. They therefore advocated for occasional social interactions and regular joint workshops and seminars on formation and collaboration in “communion for the priests and Consecrated persons working in dioceses and deaneries.”

Among other things, the participants also called for greater awareness and deeper incorporation of the history and theology of Consecrated Life into the curriculum programmes of Houses of formation; noting that “The importance of collaborative ministry and the distinctive role of Consecrated persons can no longer be optional to foster growth and strengthen the mission of the Church.”

Noting that Religious follow the Lord in a special way “in a prophetic way”; the participants added that “Consecrated Life is a gift of the Church”, while “Radical evangelical living is not only for religious but a demand of everyone”

Africa Day 25 May 2015, Cardinal Turkson’s message to Africa

Vatican Radio || 25 May 2015

By the late 19th century, the whole African continent was under colonial rule by Britain, France, Portugal, Germany, Belgium, Italy and Spain. This is what is often referred to as a period of the ‘Scramble for Africa.’

The "Scramble for Africa" is the popular name for the invasion, occupation, colonisation and annexation of African territory by European powers during the period of New Imperialism, between 1881 and 1914. This period is also called the Partition of Africa and the Conquest of Africa.

In 1870, only 10 percent of Africa was under European control. By 1914 it was 90 percent of the continent, with only Abyssinia (Ethiopia) and Liberia still being independent.

The Berlin Conference of 1884, which regulated European colonisation and trade in Africa is usually referred to as the starting point of the Conquest of Africa.

In 1914, when Germany and Italy were defeated at the end of the First World War, they lost their colonial territories in Africa to the victors.

To this day, Africa’s artificial boundaries drawn up during the partition of Africa continue to create wars and conflict. The boundaries were drawn across tribal lands.

With more countries gaining independence in the 1960s, there was a felt need, by the newly independent nations, for an organisation that would express collectively the aspirations of African people and their struggles. And so it came to pass that on 25 May 1963 African leaders meeting in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia formed the Organisation of African Unity (OAU).  Africa Day was thus born and through this day, Africans celebrate the cherished ideal of African unity.

To further cement the push towards a more unified Africa, the OAU decided in Lomé, Togo, in the year 2000, to expand and transform itself and some of its earlier ideals. Two years later, the OAU was officially disbanded. On 9 July 2002, in Lusaka, Zambia the OAU was reconstituted as the African Union (AU).

As almost all African countries are politically independent, Africa Day is becoming more of a day for awareness creation about matters African.  It has also become a platform for informing people about the political and developmental challenges of modern-day Africa.

The day has also a cultural dimension to it, that is, celebrating African life, culture, the gift of music, bright colours and art.

Cardinal Turkson’s message to Africa on Africa Day 2015

Vatican Radio || By Rudolph Nyamudo and Fr. Paul Samasumo || 25 May 2015

Speaking on the occasion of Africa Liberation Day or Africa Freedom Day being celebrated by many African countries on 25 May 2015, the President of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, Peter Kodwo Appiah Cardinal Turkson has spoken passionately about the need for African governments to work towards nation building. Cardinal Turkson, who originates from Ghana, was speaking in Rome during an interview with Fr. Paul Samasumo of Radio Vatican’s English Service for Africa.

“A number of people in Africa value the sense of solidarity and belonging to tribal groups than to national groups,” he has said.

According to Cardinal Turkson, most African governments have not been able to achieve nation building and nationhood. The Cardinal says, “The historical creation of country boundaries in Africa was not done with a sense of dignity by colonial powers.  The boundary making disregarded the question of who lives where and other crucial factors.  Hence, this has contributed to challenges of nation building on the African continent,” Cardinal Turkson said.

Christians in Africa, the Cardinal emphasised, should particularly be at the forefront and speak the language of Saint Paul who says, ‘There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free person, there is not male and female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28).  “This has not happened in several places in Africa - and Europe as well.  If that happens, one would expect that at least in the Church our sense of communion would supersede that of our tribal belonging.  The value of ‘Family of God’ should drive people to realise that in a family there is belonging and fairness; in a family, relationships are reconciled and built,”  he said.

Asked about one of Africa’s present challenges, migration and the current tragedies of young people dying in the Mediterranean sea on their way to Europe, Cardinal Turkson said that he appreciates what the European Union and what all other concerned groups are trying to do. He however says, “We should first learn to turn off the tap and not limit ourselves to mopping the water. It is of paramount importance to investigate questions about where the migrants are coming from and what is making them flee,” he said.  

The Cardinal says that migration is a challenging issue that heads of states and governments in Africa need to look at seriously.  He says that African youth are the ones who are capable of carrying out development on the continent and if they are abandoning the continent it would be difficult to develop Africa.  “The human person, human capital is one of the greatest assets we have for development in Africa hence the need to invest in the capabilities of these young people and making them contribute to nation building is the way forward for Africa,” he said.

The Cardinal further challenged Africa to invest in the education of its people and make resources available to them.

Church and School Compound Bombed in Nuba Mountains, Bishop Laments

CANAA || By Fr. Don Bosco Onyalla || 25 May 2015

Bishop Emeritus of El Obeid Diocese in Sudan, Macram Max Gassis, has reported the bombing of a Church and school compound in Nuba Mountains and decried the action as a manifestation of hatred.

In a message to the Sudan and South Sudan Advisor John Ashworth, which was made available to CANAA, Bishop Gassis reported the Monday event as having been witnessed by church personnel.

“Today, Monday, May 25 2015, two Migs flew over Kauda and dropped two missiles in the priests' compound. The Good Lord protected the priests, brother Isaac, the Sisters, and the students from the bombs of the assassins. The bombs fell near the bore-well,” Bishop Gassis shared.

Bishop Gassis oversees the Catholic Church operations in the Nuba Mountains, including the hospital in Gidel.

“All the church personnel were near the explosion of the bombs,” Bishop Gassis’ message continues, “The school students were not at school today as it is correction day. The cooks are quite shaken but no one was hurt. Some of the teachers and young men were offloading firewood in the Sisters' compound. Thank God they were also safe.”

“Last year after the bombing of our hospital a member of the Sudanese Embassy in Nairobi replied to a journalist from South Africa that their forces do not bomb churches, schools, or hospital,” Bishop Gassis recollected and added, “Telling lies is part of their nature!! They know quite well that that area has nothing to do with SPLA/N.”

“In the year 2000, the regime of Khartoum targeted our primary school in Kauda and killed 15 students and their teacher,” Bishop Gassis further recalled.

“An official in the Sudan Embassy in Nairobi had declared that the bombs had fallen exactly where they should have exploded. Is there a greater killer and demon than such a person?” he wondered.

“Khartoum should know that their actions breed hatred. The blood of the innocent civilians cries before the throne of God. These people will face the same punishment as that of Cain who killed his brother Abel," Bishop Gassis concluded.

Meanwhile, Bishop Michael Didi of El Obeid who arrived in Nairobi on Monday told CANAA that he had not yet heard about the bombing since he had been traveling for a couple of days.

Bishop Didi is in Nairobi for the Executive Board meeting of the Association of Member Episcopal Conferences in Eastern Africa (AMECEA).

History is made in Kenya as First Beatification on African Soil Takes Place

CANAA || By Sr. Scholastica Kaliki, OSB and Fr. Don Bosco Onyalla || 25 May 2015

History was made in Kenya over the weekend as the beatification of Sr. Irene Stefani, the first on the African soil, took place on Saturday at the Dedan Kimathi University College grounds in Nyeri.

A similar event took place in El Salvador, where Archbishop Oscar Romero was beatified on Saturday.

The three-day event in Kenya started on Friday with vigil prayers at Gikondi Parish in Nyeri where 39-year old Sr. Irene Stefani died and concluded on Sunday with a procession and thanksgiving Eucharistic celebration and transfer of the relics.

On Saturday at 10.55 a.m. Sr. Irene Stefani climbed a penultimate step to sainthood.

She was declared Blessed by the papal delegate to the beatification ceremony, Polycarp Cardinal Pengo of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

John Cardinal Njue of Nairobi presided over the well-animated Eucharistic celebration.

The colourful and historic event was also graced by 28 Catholic Bishops and Archbishops, over 500 Catholic priests and Deacons, many more men and women religious, and up to 100,000 local and international pilgrims.

Millions more followed the historic event live on television as all major television channels in Kenya covered the ceremony and had live broadcasts of the Saturday and Sunday proceedings.

In his homily, Cardina Njue described Blessed Irene Stefani as one who was “out to serve the Lord in the dying at all cost” since “her passing glory came as a result of her contracting pneumonia from her patient.”

He saw the beatification of Sr. Irene as “an impetus to the promotion of vocations and missionary zeal” and invited the Christian faithful “to have more enthusiasm in the proclamation of the Good News.”

Cardinal Njue challenged the young people to strive to make positive contribution to society in the example of Blessed Irene Stefani saying, “love killed her.”

The Saturday momentous occasion brought together the Church and the State in Kenya, with Kenya’s President Uhuru Kenyatta, Deputy President William Ruto, and immediate former President Mwai Kibaki among the many State dignitaries in attendance.

In his remarks, President Uhuru described the beatification as an opportunity to “renew that spirit of love, compassion, humility, and self-giving for God and humanity,” which characterized the life of Blessed Irene Stefani.

Alluding to the terrors attacks Kenya has witnessed, President Uhuru called for religious tolerance exemplified by the works of Blessed Irene Stefani who reached out to all regardless of race, religion or social status.

Sr. Irene is a Consolata Missionary Sister from Northern Italy. She arrived in Kenya in 1915 and was assigned at Gikondi in Nyeri where she cared for the sick, the wounded, the poor and the dying.

She won the hearts of the Gikuyu who nicknamed her Nyaatha, the merciful one.

Blessed Irene Stefani is the second candidate for sainthood for Kenya after Servant of God, Maurice Cardinal Otunga.

Angolans Celebrate World Communications Day Mass

Vatican Radio || Anastácio Sasembele in Luanda || 19 May 2015

Angolans have celebrated World Communications Day by praying for deceased journalists. In a celebration of Mass last week, vice president of the episcopal conference, the Conferência Episcopal de Angola e São Tomé (CEAST),   Dom António Jaka who is the Bishop of Caxito Diocese,  stated that death is not only inevitable but is a mystery. However, he added that dying is not the end of hope for a Christian because Jesus has defeated death with his resurrection.

Addressing journalists at the Mass, Bishop Dom António Jaka mentioned that faith is not only expressed in words. Deeds and concrete ways are important aspects of the daily life of every Christian.

Speaking at the same gathering, journalist and members of National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA), parliamentary leader, Raul Danda said he considered the act of celebrating Mass for deceased journalists as a noble act of the Church. He said it was a sign of recognition of the prime role of journalists who fight for truth at all cost, even at the cost of their own lives.

Another journalist at the same event, Siona Casimiro appreciated the Mass and said it was a fitting tribute for fallen journalists.

Libyan Bishop Vows to Save the Faith in His Country

Aleteia || Sylvain Dorient || 21 May 2015

If there's one Christian left, I will stay with him, says Bishop Martinelli of Tripoli

"If there is only one Christian left in Libya, I will stay with him," says Bishop Martinelli, Apostolic Vicar of Tripoli.
 
Bishop Giovanni Innocenzo Martinelli announced to news.va that he would not leave Libya as long as a single Christian remains there. He observed that the Christian community is reduced to a minimum and that the country is experiencing its most difficult time since the fall of Gaddafi. In Tripoli, heavy fighting between opposing factions has reduced the airport to ruins. In Cyrenaica, the situation is even more confusing, because of the presence of various armed groups who compete to control the area.

The port, the only escape route

The airport is unusable and the inhabitants of Tripoli can no longer rely on the land route to escape either: the road to the border is not safe. Yet Msg. Martinelli says: "I still trust in the future of Libya. We are in God's hands." His parishioners are mostly Filipinos, many of them paramedics. The majority are women who have decided to stay because of the increasing health needs among the population. In particular, the closing of the Saint Jacques hospital, whose staff was recalled overseas, weighs heavily on the health facilities in the Libyan capital.

The Libyan chaos

The Libyan government, which accuses Qatar and Turkey of financing the terrorists, broke off all commercial operations with both countries. This tension became evident on Sunday, May 10 when a Turkish cargo ship that tried to enter the port of Tobruk became the target of shells fired by the Libyan army from the coast. A Turkish sailor died. Despite these drastic measures, the government is struggling to enforce its authority. http://www.hrw.org/news/2015/05/11/libya-new-icc-investigation-needed-amid-crisis">Human Rights Watch noted that armed conflicts combined with the central authorities’ breakdown have eliminated any semblance of order in many parts of the country. The unbridled violence of numerous armed factions is pushing Libyans on the risky road of immigration towards Europe via the dangerous journey on the Mediterranean Sea.

Migrants are thrown overboard

The fate of those coming from sub-Saharan Africa is even worse. Despised, robbed, abused, over 170,000 of them tried to reach Europe via Libya in 2014. They also suffer from religious persecution as Charles, a Christian from Nigeria, quoted here by Amnesty International, discovered: "They stole our money and whipped us. I cannot complain to the police, explaining that I am a Christian, because they do not like us ... In October 2014, four men kidnapped me, because they saw that I was carrying a Bible. "

Catholic Bishop in Nigeria Pays First Pastoral Visit to Corpers

CANAA || By Fr. Onuh Ladi || 21 May 2015

Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah of the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto in Nigeria last Sunday, May 17, paid his first pastoral visit to corpers at the Wamako Camp in Sokoto State, where he presided over the Eucharistic celebration.

There were some 300 participants at the Eucharist, most of them corpers who are part of the National Association of Catholic Corpers (NACC) Sokoto Chapter.

The Association comprises of young Nigerians, graduates from local, regional and international institutions of higher learning, for the purpose of service of their country in areas other than their own.

The Association belongs to the bigger body of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), a program of integration by the Federal Government of Nigeria.

The members received Bishop Kukah with joy and excitement, posing to take snapshots with their shepherd as members of the Wamako Camp.

In his homily, the Bishop encouraged the corpers to witness to Christ through their actions and good conducts.

Bishop Kukah called on the corpers in attendance to feel safe in Sokoto and to take the opportunity of being away from their ancestral regions to learn about others saying, “corps members should see it as a privilege, rather than a punishment, to learn about societies other than theirs.”

“Make friends, make friends, make friends,” Bishop Kukah insisted, urging the corpers to make the best use of the opportunity, which may “never come [their] way again.”

Malawi’s Catholic Justice Commission Urges Catholic MPs to Denounce Injustices

CANAA || By Prince Henderson, ECM Communications Officer || 21 May 2015

The Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace (CCJP) of the Episcopal Conference of Malawi (ECM) has challenged members of Malawi Parliament, especially those from the Catholic Church, to strive for and announce the truth about human dignity, denouncing all injustices in society.

ECM Acting Secretary General, Fr. Emmanuel Chimombo said this Wednesday when CCJP held an interface meeting with all members of Parliament that belong to the Catholic Church at Capital Hotel in Lilongwe.

The meeting, which was termed as working dinner between the Catholic Church and Members of Parliament who are currently meeting in Lilongwe for the 2015/2016 national budget, was aimed at briefing the parliamentarians on issues that affect their constituents.

The MPs were challenged, as duty bearers, to take action during this time when they are meeting for the budget session.

“This gathering is an opportune moment for us as ECM to exposes the social teachings of the Church. This is part of the Church’s moral theological reflection on the complex realities of human existence in society-social, political, economic-in the light of faith, therefore, allow God to play a role in any intervention that you contribute in Parliament,” said Fr. Chimombo in his key note address.

Fr. Chimombo said that the social teaching of the Church has a threefold task: to announce the truth about human dignity, to denounce unjust situations in society, and to contribute to positive changes and real human progress.

“We encourage you, our honourable parliamentarians to consider the plight of those affected by floods and droughts. Through this forthcoming budget deliberation currently in progress, the affected ones need to be strengthened hence resuscitating their livelihoods. Their food situation needs also to be strengthened by deliberately putting in resources that would support their winter cropping, as an example,” Fr. Chimombo to the Catholic MPs.

CCJP’s national programs coordinator for governance desk, Martin Chiphwanya in his issue paper presentation towards 2015/2016 budget process said that the justice and peace arm of the Catholic Church in Malawi engaged with both national and district Civil Society Organizations and Faith Based Organizations to assess the issues that are being impacted by the national budgetary process.

“It is therefore imperative that the Malawi government in the 2015/2016 financial year prioritizes midterm and long-term recovery plans. As such, our call is for the budget to be a recovery budget setting the tone for fiscal development in the next few years,” Chiphwanya said.

On his part, CCJP’s national secretary, Chris Chisoni said that the Catholic Church is also concerned about the attacks on people with albinism and xenophobia. He urged parliamentarians to address these situations urgently.

Speaking on behalf of fellow parliamentarians, Mangochi South Member of Parliament, Lillian Patel commended the Catholic Church through CCJP for always remembering its Christians including Catholic Parliamentarians.

“Before we all became parliamentarians we belonged to the Catholic Church as such the Church is like our parents whose duty is to advise us so that we deliver in our constituencies. As a Catholic law marker, I will strive to follow the social teaching that the church encourages us to subscribe to,” said Patel.

Other notable faces that attended that working dinner included Minister of Transport and Public Works who is also leader of the house in the national assembly Francis Kasaila, former first lady Patricia Shannil Dzimbiri, Juliana Lunguzi, Alekeni Menyani, Harry Thomson and Ralph Jooma among others.

The event was organized in line with the Scaling up Enhanced Citizen Participation for Accountable, Transparent and Responsive Governance project which is being implemented in twelve districts across the country with support from Tilitonse Fund.

Photos by Louis Suwedi, ECM Media and Productions Officer

Pope Francis Encourages Bishops of CAR to Foster “renewed enthusiasm and dynamism” through Faith and Hope

Vatican Information Service || 15 May 2015

The role of the Church in the process of national reconciliation, Christian formation and the deepening of faith at all levels, and the defence of the family as the primary locus for learning forgiveness and faith were the central themes of the discourse Pope Francis handed to the bishops of the Episcopal Conference of the Central African Republic this morning, at the end of their “ad Limina” visit. “I would like you to convey to all your people the assurance of my closeness”, writes the Holy Father. “I know of the suffering that they have experienced and continue to experience, as well as the countless testimonies of faith and fidelity Christians have rendered to the risen Christ on numerous occasions. I am particularly aware of all that your communities have done to for victims of violence and for refugees”.

“Your task is difficult, but it touches the very mystery of Jesus Christ, who died and rose again. It is when evil and death seem to triumph that the hope of renewal in Christ emerges. It is when hatred and violence are unleashed that we are called upon – and find the strength through the power of the Cross and the grace of Baptism – to respond with forgiveness and love. If, sadly, this has not always been the case in the recent events that you have experienced, it is a sign that the Gospel has not yet deeply penetrated the heart of the People of God, to the point of changing their reflexes and their behaviour. Your churches are the result of recent evangelisation, and your primary mission is to continue the work recently begun. You must not be discouraged by the storm you are passing through, but on the contrary must find, in faith and hope, a source of renewed enthusiasm and dynamism”.

Christian formation and the deepening of faith at all levels must be the bishops' priorities, “so that the Gospel permeates the life of the baptised, for the good not only of the Christian communities, but also the whole of Central African society. ... You, brothers in the episcopate, must play an indispensable prophetic role during the current institutional transition, recalling and reflecting the witness of the fundamental values of justice, truth and honesty, which are the foundation of any renewal, promoting dialogue and peaceful coexistence between members of different societies and ethnicities, thus encouraging reconciliation and social cohesion, which is the key to the future. … You are called upon to form the conscience of the faithful, and indeed that of all the people, as your voice is heard and respected by all. It is in this way that you should take your rightful place in current developments, avoiding direct involvement in political quarrels. However, by forming and encouraging the laity so they are steadfast in their faith and solidly trained in the social doctrine of the Church, able to engage in political debate and to take responsibility – their role – you are able to gradually transform society according to the Gospel and to prepare a happy future for your people”.

The Pope also emphasises the formation of seminarians and priests, and thanks them for their witness even in the most difficult situations, and he recalls the importance of consecrated persons who live close to afflicted populations and whose devotion is praiseworthy.

Finally, he spoke about families, “who are the first victims of violence and who are too often destabilised or destroyed as a result of the departure of a member, bereavement, poverty, discord and separations. I wish to express to them my closeness and my affection. … Families are not only the privileged location for the announcement of faith, the practice of Christian virtues and the cradle of many priestly and religious vocations, but they are also 'the best setting for learning and applying the culture of forgiveness, peace and reconciliation', which your country needs. It is essential that the family be protected and defended 'so that it may offer society the service expected of it, that of providing men and women capable of building a social fabric of peace and harmony'. I can therefore only encourage you to accord to the pastoral care of marriage the attention that it deserves, and not to be discouraged by resistance due to cultural traditions, human weakness or the new forms of ideological colonisation that are spreading everywhere”.

Church in Angola to Foster Catholic Ethos in its Schools

Vatican Radio || Angola Press || 18 May 2015

The Catholic Church in Angola has reaffirmed its commitment to work with the Government in the education sector. This was said on Thursday by the Chairman of the Angolan Episcopal Commission for education, Bishop Almeida Kanda. He was speaking in Luena which is situated in the eastern Moxico Province.

Bishop Kanda, of Ndalatando Diocese, was speaking when he opened the XII National Meeting of Catholic aided schools. The meeting ended on Sunday. Eighty two delegates attended the meeting held at the diocesan centre of Luena.

In his address, Bishop Kanda reiterated the Catholic Church’s overall commitment to improve the quality of education and the school system in Angola.  He also said that the Catholic Church will continue to work with the government in the field of education.

As Angola commemorates 40 years of independence, this year, Bishop Kanda called for a study to find out the impact of the Church's social services in the country. He explained that the Church’s intention to expand Catholic education in Angola was meant to offer young people the opportunity for integral formation.

The XII National Meeting of Angolan Catholic schools seeks to cement the education offered in Catholic school as, “educating for values,” and one that is anchored on Catholic ethos.

With the participation of school principals, teachers and parents, the meeting was set to embark on innovative projects for Catholic schools.

Correction on Beatification Cause of Ghanaian Cardinal News Story

CANAA || By Fr. Don Bosco Onyalla || 18 May 2015

The last CANAA News Updates (Thursday, May 14, 2015) had a news story titled “Church in Ghana Launches Cause for the Beatification of First Ghanaian Cardinal.”

The news story described the late Peter Cardinal Porekuu Dery as the first Ghanaian Cardinal.

We are writing to correct the error in that story.

Cardinal Dery, whose cause of beatification and canonization was officially launched on May 9, 2015, is the second (not the first) Ghanaian cardinal.

He had served as the Archbishop of Tamale in Ghana from 1974 to 1994. Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI elevated him to the cardinalate in 2006.

Cardinal Dery’s cause of canonization started in 2013 and he is now referred to as Servant of God.

He died in Tamale (Ghana) at the age of 89 on March 6, 2008.

Peter Cardinal Turkson, President of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace since 2009, is Ghana’s first Cardinal, having been elevated to the cardinalate by Pope John Paul II in 2003.

A Ghanaian Archbishop Elected President of Caritas Africa

CANAA || By Fr. Don Bosco Onyalla || 18 May 2015

Archbishop Gabriel Justice Yaw Anokye of the Archdiocese of Kumasi, Ghana, is the new President of Caritas Africa (CA), elected during CA meeting that preceded the 20^th General Assembly of Caritas Internationalis (CI) in Rome.

Every four years delegates from member organisations from across the globe travel to Rome for their General Assembly. During the week, the delegates pray together, hold elections for new leadership and decide the confederation’s strategic direction for the next four years.

Delegates for the 2015 CI General Assembly gathered in Rome from May 12-17, 2015 under the theme, One Human Family, Caring for Creation.

Archbishop Anokye was also elected CI Second Vice-President at the just concluded CI confederation, during which Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of Manila, Philippines, was elected CI President, the first person from Asia to hold the post.

Caritas Internationalis is the global confederation of 165 (after South Sudan became member) Catholic organisations working on behalf of the poor. It is the arm through which the Church delivers its moral mission to help the most vulnerable and excluded people, whatever their religion or race.

Sharing his vision for CA as the new president, Archbishop Anokye promised to continue the vision of CA.

“Whatever vision there is already for Caritas Africa is what I am going to fulfill and our vision is to “give life in abundance” (John 10:10),” Archbishop Archbishop Anokye has been quoted as saying in an interview (below) with Cecilia Agrinya of the Catholic Caritas Foundation of Nigeria (CCFN).

The new CA president further promised to make known CA vision on the continent so that “it is owned by everybody, loved, cherished and implemented.”

“The mission to achieving this is surely to bring people to know it, talk about it more, form people and also commission people do precisely that,” Archbishop Anokye emphasized, adding, “I am going to align with the old vision of Caritas Africa and ensuring that we achieve our mission of reaching out in love to our brothers and sisters who are in need.”

Archbishop Anokye is the Second Vice-President of the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of AFrica and Madagascar (SECAM) and Chairman of SECAM's Commission of Justice, Peace, Development and Good Governance.

According to Caritas Press Release, the member organizations of CI’s General Assembly adopted the 2015 assembly's theme “One Human Family, Caring for Creation” as vision at the end of their meeting in Rome.

The over 400 people from over 160 national Caritas organizations ratified the nomination of the secretary general, reconfirmed Michel Roy Secretary General and appointed a new board.

CI new treasurer is Alexander Bodmann of Austria.

South Sudan became the 165^th national member organisation of the Caritas confederation.

Oscar Romero, murdered for standing with the poor in El Salvador, was adopted as a patron of Caritas Internationalis.

The final message of CI General Assembly on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) urges governments to look beyond their own borders and to recognise the moral imperative that is inherent in care for creation and states, “no target should be considered as met unless achieved for all income and social groups; this fundamental, person-centred strategy must be central.”

New President of Caritas Africa Shares Vision for the Poor

Caritas || By Cecilia Agrinya || 17 May 2015

Archbishop Gabriel Justice Yaw Anokye of Kumasi, Ghana is the newly elected President of Caritas Africa. In this interview, he shares his vision of a Church for the poor in Africa.

Q: What does the General Assembly mean for delegates from Africa?

A: Caritas Africa attends this 20th General Assembly in fidelity and in brotherliness as one family. This year as the theme tells us we all want to care for creation, we are one human family, one creation and every part of this family must come together to think of the whole.

We have also come to join our brothers and sisters from other Caritas member countries to form one big family, share success stories and challenges while learning from each other how to chart the way forward to achieve our mission and vision of serving the poor and caring for creation as Caritas.

Q: Looking at what Pope Francis says about a “Church for the poor”, what does this mean in Africa?

A: The mission of Christ as announced by Himself in Isaiah Chapter 51 “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, He has anointed me to bring the good news to the poor…” Similarly, in Christ’s sermon on the Mount; the first Beatitudes says “Blessed are the poor in spirit”.

So you can see that Him though rich in His divinity became poor (Philippians 2:6), in order to make us wealthy, divinized to share in His riches; this is the philosophy, theology, vision and indeed the mission of Christ; to raise the poor, to bring the lowly to a higher level, He didn’t come to save angels or raise again those who are already high up but to raise the poor, lowly, widows, orphans and strangers. These categories of people we call the poor are treated as the apples of His eyes and are kept very well by God Himself who hears the cry of the poor.

Therefore, Caritas which is issued out from the heart of the Church’s missionary and charity activities must also care for the poor. We do support the Pope as he reminds us of our duty to care for the poor. So for the Church to be able to serve the poor must be poor “a Poor Church” to be able to enter the ghettos, the sowetos, the zongos of our villages and hard-to-reach communities support the poor where they are as Caritas (Church).

Q: Going forward, looking at your role of being in charge of Justice and Peace Commission, how do you see Caritas and Justice Peace working together in member countries of the African Region, especially where there exist in parallel?

A: Before my election as president of Caritas Africa, I was and I still am the second vice president the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM). As the second vice president, I am in charge of Justice and Peace Commission, good governance, advocacy and lobbying (talking for and against), I’m also in charge of development, migration and health. All these areas concern the human being as the focus of our activities. As we speak for justices and advocate for human rights, we are doing the work of Caritas, the work of love. Because if I look for justice for others, advocate for peace, good governance, transparency and accountability from African leaders to ensure growth and development for the common man, I’m showing love which means Caritas. Bringing food to the suffering, visiting those who are sick or in prison, being in solidarity with those affected by earthquake and other natural and man-made disasters, is the visible part of justice, peace and reconciliation.

Justice, peace, development and reconciliation are integrated into the work of Caritas. One is more visible and the other structural but the two go together.

Q: As the new president, what is your vision of Caritas Africa?

A: Let me start by referring you to what Jesus himself said in Matthew 7:15 “I came to fulfill not to abolish”. In line with this, whatever vision there is already for Caritas Africa is what I am going to fulfill and our vision is to “give life in abundance” (John 10:10), I am not going to change that vision to fulfill it by making sure it is owned by everybody, loved, cherished and implemented. I am going to talk about it, remind members of the African region. The mission to achieving this is surely to bring people to know it, talk about it more, form people and also commission people do precisely that. So I am going to align with the old vision of Caritas Africa and ensuring that we achieve our mission of reaching out in love to our brothers and sisters who are in need.

Cecilia Agrinya is Communications Specialist and Business Development Associate for the Catholic Caritas Foundation of Nigeria (CCFN).

The Scale of Suffering of Nigerian Catholics at the Hands of Boko Haram

Vatican Radio || Catholic news Service(CNS), Manchester, England || 12 May 2015

A new report has revealed the scale of suffering of Nigerian Catholics at the hands of Boko Haram militants, with 5,000 Catholics killed in one diocese alone. A further 100,000 Catholics in the Diocese of Maiduguri, in the northeast of the country, have been displaced by the six-year campaign of violence conducted by the Muslim militant group, according to the "Situation Report on the Activities of Boko Haram in the Catholic Diocese of Maiduguri."

There are now about 7,000 widows in the diocese and nearly 10,000 orphaned children, said the report. Among the diocese's displaced are 26 of 46 priests, 200 catechists and 20 religious sisters, the report found. The diocese includes the entire states of Borno and Yobe and part of Adamawa state.

More than 350 churches in the diocese have been the targets of terror attacks with "a good number of them destroyed more than once," the report said. Aid to the Church in Need said 22 of the Maiduguri Diocese's 40 parish centers and chaplaincies have been deserted by Catholics. Many are occupied by Boko Haram militants, who control about three-quarters of the territory of the diocese, the report said. It said 32 of the 40 church-run primary schools have been deserted, and four of the diocese's five convents are closed.

The Vatican Creates Forum for African Diplomats to Discuss Migration

Vatican Radio || By Linda Bordoni || 13 May 2015

Top diplomats to the Holy See were invited on Wednesday to share their views and express their hopes and expectations regarding the tragic situation of migrants who risk their lives to cross the Mediterranean as they flee desperation back home.

The boat-borne exodus that has seen more than 10,000 people plucked from the Mediterranean off Libya in the last month, and the deaths of at least 1,700 from drowning, has driven the European Union to draw up a plan to confront the challenge posed by the massive influx of migrants and refugees.

A joint initiative by the Pontifical Councils for “Justice and Peace” and for “Migrants and Itinerant Peoples” has created a platform for African Ambassadors to the Holy See to exchange thoughts and ideas.

The aim of the platform is also to allow the diplomats to take proposals back to their Governments, seeing – as Cardinal Peter Turkson, President of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace points out – that a high percentage of those crossing the Mediterranean come from African nations.

Speaking to Linda Bordoni, Cardinal Turkson pointed to what seems to be a ‘deafening silence’ coming from across the sea as tens of thousands have fled the African Continent only to encounter torture, exploitation, trafficking and even death…

Cardinal Turkson speaks of the current crisis pointing out that Pope Francis first raised the alarm when he travelled to Lampedusa and spoke of a “culture of indifference”.

He remarks on the fact that lately the dramatic turn the exodus has taken has caused the EU to hold a meeting and to draw up a plan to confront the challenge.

Turkson comments on the fact that although not everyone who is coming into Europe through the gateway provided by the Mediterranean, a good number of them are from North and Sub-Saharan Africa.

“Why is everybody talking about this and nothing is coming from Africa? We are not hearing the Heads of State, we are not hearing the African Union” he says.

So, recognizing that the power of the Ambassadors is a limited one “we still thought we can bring them together and create at least a forum, a platform for them to exchange thoughts and at least be able to suggest to their governments that the Offices of the Holy See feel this way” he says.

Turkson says that during their meeting it emerged that in fact some governments have been making their voices heard, including Egypt. And organizations like ECOWAS and the AU have also expressed their view.

Turkson says the discussion amongst those present placed a lot of emphasis on the global dimension of the phenomenon.

He says that the problem of trafficking was also addressed as was the need for development in poor countries.

He says the Ambassadors agree that: “If that is the case why should we not charge our governments to take a serious look at this?” 

Cardinal Turkson concludes pointing out that it is all very well for the EU and for the AU to meet to address the issue separately – and to come up with solutions – “but it should be possible to come together to discuss the problems together”.

Church in Ghana Launches Cause for the Beatification of First Ghanaian Cardinal

CANAA || By Damian Avevor, Accra and Francis E. Monnie, Tamale || 14 May 2015

The cause for the beatification of the first Ghanaian Cardinal, Peter Cardinal Porekuu Dery, was officially launched last Saturday, May 9, 2015 at Our Lady of Annunciation Cathedral in the Archdiocese of Tamale, Northern Ghana.

The well-attended Celebration was presided over by the Apostolic Nuncio to Ghana, Archbishop Jean-Marie Speich, with Archbishop Philip Naameh giving the homily.

Bishop Paul Bemile of Wa diocese, Bishop Peter Paul Angkyier of Damongo diocese and Archbishop Emeritus Gregory Kpiebaya of Tamale were the other concelebrating Bishops.

In his homily, Archbishop Naameh urged Catholics in Ghana to support the cause for the beatification of the Servant of God, Cardinal Dery with prayers to God so that the process may be realized and enable him be officially recognized as a model for the Universal Church.

The Nuncio expressed delight at the palpable show of enthusiasm displayed by the clergy and faithful in Ghana to the cause of Cardinal Dery’s beatification, calling for unity and commitment during the entire process.

The Celebration was also graced by the presence of the Supreme Knight of the Knights of Marshall, Sir Kt. Joseph Ekow Paintsil, members of the Cardinal Dery Foundation, scores of priests, religious, seminarians, family members of the late Cardinal, invited guests and the Faithful.

In line with requirements for beatification in the Catholic Church, the first session started with the invocation of the Holy Spirit, facilitated by Dr. Waldery Hilgeman, the Postulator for the cause of beatification and canonization, assisted by two Vice Postulators, Bro. Reginald Cruz and Father Edward Kuukure.

At the occasion, Archbishop Naameh read a decree accepting the written petition of the Postulator to carry out investigations into the life, virtues, and reputation of holiness of Cardinal Dery.

The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference (GCBC) and the Holy See respectively gave their seals of approval for the beatification cause to proceed.

To facilitate the beatification cause, a diocesan tribunal composed of Father Matthew Yitiereh (Episcopal delegate), Father Theodulus Tanti (Promotor of Justice), Father Remigius Siesegh (Notary) and Madam Agnes Gandaa (Adjunct Notary) was constituted, in line with the decree read by the Apostolic Nuncio to Ghana.

The diocesan tribunal shall be responsible for interviewing and recording eye witness accounts from people who closely encountered Cardinal Dery and collect documents and archival materials relevant to the cause of beatification.

Later, Archbishop Naameh, the Postulator and Vice Postulators and officials of the diocesan tribunal all swore the prescribed oaths, pledging secrecy and the rejection of any inducements meant to influence the conduct of the cause for Cardinal Dery’s beatification.

According to the Postulator, Dr. Waldery Hilgeman, the processes leading up to beatification will be painstaking. He entreated the diocesan tribunal to work diligently to attain the desired results in good time.

BIOGRAPHY OF PETER CARDINAL POREKUU DERY

Birth & baptism

Young Porekuu Dery was born on 10^th May, 1918 at Zimuopari, a village five miles from Nandom in the Wa Diocese to Mr. Theodore Porekuu and Madam Agnes Zoore and was baptized by the White Fathers on Christmas Eve, 1932 and named Peter.

Education

He began primary school in 1932 at the newly opened Catechists school in Jirapa and later at St. Paul’s Junior School at Navrongo in 1934. In May 1935, he was promoted to the Immaculate Conception Junior Seminary in Navrongo and completed his “O”-Level in1939. He was admitted to the Higher School (Sixth Form) and the St. John Bosco’s Training College and completed the “A”-Level studies and the same graduated as a trained teacher in 1941.

Priesthood  

Fr. Peter Porekuu Dery began his priestly formation at St. Teresa’s Major Seminary at Amisano in the Cape Coast Archdiocese and was later transferred with other students to open the new St. Victor’s Major Seminary at Wiagha in the Navrongo/Bolgatanga Diocese in 1946. In 1951, he completed his formation and was ordained priest on 11^th February, 1951 at Nandom by Bishop Gerard Bertrand, M. Afr., Bishop of Tamale and appointed to Nandom parish. He was the very first priest from the whole of the Upper West Region. Between 1957 and 1958, he studied at the St. Francis Xavier University in Nova Scotia in Canada and later pursued a cause in religious education at the International Catechetical Institute of Lumen Vitae, in Brussels, Belgium.

Episcopate

Fr. Peter Porekuu Dery was elected the first Bishop of Wa on 16^th March, 1960 and was consecrated Bishop on 8^th May, 1960 at the Patriarchal Vatican Basilica in Rome by Pope John XXII. He was a Council Father at the historic Second Vatican Council held in Rome from 1962-1965. He became the Apostolic Administrator when the See of Tamale became vacate after the retirement of Bishop Gabriel Champagne. He also became the first Archbishop when Tamale was elevated to the status of an Archdiocese in 1977. At the National Level, he was President of the Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference from 1982-1988. He retired as Archbishop of Tamale on 26^th March, 1994.

Cardinalate

Archbishop Dery, though retired, was created Cardinal by Pope Benedict XVI on 24^th March, 2006 and installed Cardinal-Deacon on 28^th March, 2006 at the age of 88-years.

Awards and Recognition

• State award – Grand Medal (Civil Division) given on 13^th January, 1974
• Honourary Degree- Doctor of Law (LLD), conferred on 18^TH September, 1978 by St. Francis Xavier University (his Alma Mater)
• Award by African Confederation of Savings and Credit Cooperatives Association

Major Appointments: Civil & Religious

• Member of Council of State in 1972
• Served for seven years as Member of GES Council
• World Bank appointment on the Advisory Panel for the Eventual Rehabilitation of the Volta Basin for Agriculture
• Appointed by Popes Paul VI and John Paul II as Member of the Pontifical Council for the laity for seven years.
• Episcopal President of the laity for 22 years; pioneering the formation of the National Catholic Laity Council (NCLC) and Ghana National Catholic Youth Council (GHANCYC), etc.
• Bishop Coordinator and Treasurer of Pan-African Laity Board.

Death

Peter Cardinal Porekuu Dery died peacefully at his residence in Tamale on 6^th March, 2008 on Ghana’s 51^st Independence Anniversary and was given a State Funeral held at the newly built Tamale Sports Stadium. He was buried on 1^st April, 2008 inside the OLA Cathedral at Tamale.

AMECEA Gathers Communicators from Bishops’ Conferences to Evaluate Newsletter and Formulate ICT Policies

CANAA || By Fr. Don Bosco Onyalla || 14 May 2015

The Social Communications department of the Association of Member Episcopal Conferences in Eastern Africa (AMECEA) is conducting a workshop in Nairobi aimed at evaluating its weekly Online Newsletter and formulating policies to guide Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) for publications within the AMECEA region.

The four-day ongoing workshop set to conclude on Friday has brought together Communication Directors and Coordinators, and Catholic Media personnel from the AMECEA region, with the Bishops’ Conferences of Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Sudan/South Sudan, Zambia, Malawi, and Ethiopia represented.

The Chairman of AMECEA Social Communication, Bishop Charles Kasonde of Zambia, presided over the official opening of workshop on Wednesday, highlighting the background and objectives of the gathering.

“During the 18^th AMECEA Plenary held in Lilongwe, Malawi (July 2014); Bishops of AMECEA resolved to establish ICT policy at the regional level that will trickle down to the Conferences and Dioceses,” Bishop Kasonde said.

According to the Bishop, the twofold objectives of the workshop include “creating a discussion forum for accelerating the building of ICT infrastructures and capacities” within the AMECEA Bishops’ Conferences through an ICT policy and evaluating of the weekly AMECEA Online Newsletter.

“The ICT policy would provide some guidelines to all the ICT activities at the Conference level and for the region, and help our officers in-charge of communication to design new media strategies in order to promote efforts evangelization,” the Bishop explained.

According to the Bishop, the ICT policies to be adopted by those participating at the workshop are expected to “apply to all individuals working for the Church and using Church communication facilities” within the AMECEA region.

Bishop Kasonde further acknowledged the contribution of the workshop participants to the AMECEA Online Newsletter saying, “Most of you have contributed to its existence by sending stories from your respective Conferences. It is time to evaluate where we have come from, where we are and how best we can move forward with our primary objective of information dissemination and sharing.”

The AMECEA Online News was established as the voice of the Catholic Church in AMECEA region on June 5, 2013 and issues the publication every Friday.

Meanwhile, speaking on behalf of AMECEA Secretary General, Father Ferdinand Lugonzo, the Pastoral Coordinator of AMECEA, Father Fabian Pikiti recognized the value and influence of modern media technologies to humanity and their role in evangelization.

“We are living in the age of Information and Communication Technology or Digital World and the Church cannot remain aloof to this reality,” Father Pikiti observed, adding , “It is time for us, as Church, to find ways of maximizing the use of ICT for the evangelization. Since evangelization is about the proclamation of the Gospel message of Jesus Christ for the purpose of salvation, ICT becomes for us an effective tool for this purpose.”

“Without the use of social media, the Church will not be present in the world of the Digital Generation, the young people,” Father Pikiti continued.

He expressed the hope that the workshop would enhance the capacities of those working in the communication departments of the Bishops’ Conferences within the AMECEA region.

The participants expect to learn new information on ICT and online journalism, the role of ICT in evangelization and to share communication experiences of the represented Bishops’ Conferences during the workshop.

Amnesty International Outlines Libya’s Abuses Driving Migrants to Risk Lives

Vatican Radio || By Amnesty International || 11 May 2015

Refugees and migrants across Libya face rape, torture and abductions for ransom by traffickers and smugglers, as well as systematic exploitation by their employers, religious persecution and other abuses by armed groups and criminal gangs, according to a new Amnesty International briefing published today.

‘Libya is full of cruelty’: Stories of abduction, sexual violence and abuse from migrants and refugees exposes the full horror and plight of refugees and migrants in Libya, many of whom are driven to risk their lives in treacherous sea crossings in a desperate attempt to reach sanctuary in Europe.
 
“The ghastly conditions for migrants, coupled with spiralling lawlessness and armed conflicts raging within the country, make clear just how dangerous life in Libya is today.  With no legal avenues to escape and seek safety, they are forced to place their lives in the hands of smugglers who callously extort, abuse and attack them,” said Philip Luther, Amnesty International’s Middle East and North Africa Director.
“The international community has stood and watched as Libya has descended into chaos since the 2011 NATO military campaign ended, effectively allowing militias and armed groups to run amok. World leaders have a responsibility and must be prepared to face the consequences, which include greater levels of refugees and migrants fleeing conflict and rampant abuse in Libya. Asylum-seekers and migrants are among the most vulnerable people in Libya and their plight must not be ignored.”

For years Libya has been both a destination and a transit country for refugees and migrants fleeing poverty, conflict or persecution in sub-Saharan Africa and the Middle East. Many come to Libya hoping to reach Europe. But the rise of lawlessness and threat posed by armed groups has exacerbated the risks they face, leading even established communities of migrants who have been living and working in Libya for years to flee to Europe by boat. Abuses in immigration detention centres where thousands of migrants and refugees, including children, face indefinite detention in deplorable conditions are another reason why so many are trying to leave.  

With fewer viable routes overland to reach sanctuary in Europe, Syrian refugees are also among those travelling to Libya to attempt  dangerous sea crossings towards European shores.

At a special summit held in Brussels last month, the European Council announced plans to increase resources for search and rescue operations in the Mediterranean.

“The commitment made by EU leaders to deploy more resources for search and rescue is a welcome step, but more people will continue to drown in the Mediterranean Sea unless rescue vessels are delivered promptly, deployed in areas where they are needed most – where most calls for help come from - and remain available for as long as high numbers of refugees and migrants continue to depart from Libya,” said Philip Luther.
 
The European Council also announced plans to intensify efforts to identify, capture and destroy vessels before they are used by smugglers. These measures are likely to be discussed at today’s meeting between the EU Foreign Minister Federica Mogherini and the UN Security Council. If implemented, the measures could lead to thousands of migrants and refugees being trapped in a conflict zone.
 
“Introducing measures to tackle smugglers without providing safe alternative routes out for the people desperate to flee conflict in Libya, will not resolve the plight of migrants and refugees,” said Philip Luther.
 
Egypt and Tunisia have also tightened border restrictions fearing a spillover of the conflict in Libya, leaving migrants and refugees whose passports have often been stolen or confiscated by smugglers, criminal gangs or their Libyan employers with no other feasible route out of the country except to embark on a perilous sea journey to Europe.  
 
“The world cannot continue to ignore its obligation to grant sanctuary to anyone fleeing such dreadful abuse. Neighbouring countries, including Tunisia and Egypt, must keep their borders open to ensure anyone fleeing violence and persecution in Libya is granted safe refuge,” said Philip Luther.
 
Amnesty International is also calling for wealthy countries to increase the number of resettlement places for vulnerable refugees and for the international community to take effective steps to urgently address human rights abuses and serious violations of international humanitarian law being committed by all sides in Libya.

Religious persecution

Christian migrants and refugees in Libya are at particular risk of abuse from armed groups aiming to impose their own interpretation of Islamic law. People from Nigeria, Eritrea, Ethiopia and Egypt have been abducted, tortured, unlawfully killed and harassed because of their religion. Most recently a total of at least 49 Christians, mostly from Egypt and Ethiopia were beheaded and shot in three mass summary killings claimed by the group calling itself the Islamic State (IS).

Migrants and refugees also face widespread abductions, torture, theft and physical assaults by criminal gangs and human smugglers, often at Libya’s southern borders and along the smuggling routes to the Libyan coast.

Charles, a 30-year-old man from Nigeria, told Amnesty International he decided to flee to Europe by boat last month after he was abducted and physically assaulted a number of times by members of a criminal gang in the coastal city of Zuwara. He had gone there to escape indiscriminate shelling and fighting in Tripoli.

“They would come steal our money and flog us. I can’t complain to the police about the Christian issue because they don’t like us… In October 2014 four men kidnapped me… because they saw I was carrying a bible,” he said.

They took away his money and phone, and held him for two days while they tortured and beat him until he finally managed to escape one night through the window.

“Such horror stories about the dangers driving migrants and refugees to flee Libya highlight the continuing desperate need to save lives in the Mediterranean. European leaders must ensure that refugees and migrants fleeing conflict and human rights abuses are never pushed back to Libya,” said Philip Luther.

Abuses along the smuggling routes: abduction, extortion and sexual violence Migrants and refugees face abuses at all stages of the smuggling routes from west and east Africa towards the Libyan coast. Sub-Saharan migrants and refugees, including unaccompanied children, have been abducted for ransom along the smuggling routes running towards the Libyan coast. During their captivity, they are subjected to torture and other ill-treatment to coerce them and their family members to pay a ransom. Those who are unable to pay are exploited and often held effectively as slaves - forced to work without pay, physically assaulted and robbed.

Smugglers also sometimes pass the migrants and refugees on to criminal groups once they cross the border in desert areas or in major transit cities along the migration route such as Sabha in the south-west or the coastal city of Ajdabya in eastern Libya.

Migrants and refugees interviewed by Amnesty International said smugglers saw them “as slaves” and treated them “like animals”. One said the smugglers kept them in a dirty overcrowded room with no toilet, blankets or mattresses and fed them only dried morsels of bread.
“It is effectively a business that they are running. They detain you so that you have to pay… If you don’t answer their questions, they beat you…with rubber pipes,” one man said. 

Women, particularly those travelling alone or without men, are at serious risk of rape or sexual abuse by smugglers and criminal gangs. Women abducted along the smuggling route who are unable to pay the ransom are at times coerced into sex in exchange for being released or being allowed to continue their journey.

“I know that [the smuggler] used three Eritrean women. He raped them and they were crying. It happened at least twice,” one eyewitness told Amnesty International.

Another woman from Nigeria described how she was gang-raped by 11 men from an armed gang as soon as she arrived in Sabha.
“They took us to a place outside the city in the desert, tied my husband’s hands and legs to a pole and gang-raped me in front of his eyes. There were 11 men in total,” she said.

Abuses by smugglers before boat departures

Some migrants and refugees said they were ill-treated by smugglers while held in partly constructed houses in Libya for periods of up to three months waiting for more passengers to be gathered. They said smugglers withheld food and water and beat them with sticks or stole their possessions.

Other Syrian refugees said they were transported in poorly ventilated refrigerator trucks.
“Two children were starting to suffocate and stopped breathing. Their parents would slap them on their faces so they would wake up. We were banging on the walls but the driver would not stop,” they said. The children were later resuscitated.

Abuses at immigration detention centres in Libya

Migrants and refugees in Libya also face indefinite detention at immigration detention centres in dire conditions where they face rampant torture and other ill-treatment. Most are detained for irregular entry and similar offences. Those captured on boats that are intercepted by the Libyan coastguard while making the journey to Europe are also detained at such centres. 

Women held in these centres have also reported sexual harassment and sexual violence. One woman told Amnesty International how officials at an immigration centre beat to death a pregnant woman detained in one such centre.

“They used to beat us with pipes on the back of our thighs; they even beat the pregnant women. At night they would come to our rooms and tried to sleep with us. Some of the women were raped. One woman got pregnant… This is why I decided to go to Europe. I suffered too much in prison,” one witness said.

“The Libyan authorities must immediately end their policy of systematic detention of refugees and migrants based solely on their immigration status, and ensure that individuals are only detained when strictly necessary for the shortest possible period,” said Philip Luther.

Pope Francis Urges Bishops of Togo to Spread Christian Family Values, Encourages Bishops of Mozambique to Always Live Among the Faithful

Vatican Information Service || 11 May 2015

Defence of the particular nature of the Christian family, and care in the formation of priests and consecrated persons in a country where religious communities and co-existence with other religions present no problems, were the key themes of the discourse Pope Francis handed to the bishops of the Episcopal Conference of Togo, whom he received in audience this morning at the end of their “ad Limina” visit.

In the text, and in view of the upcoming Synod of Bishops, the Pope underlines the need for the positive aspects of African families to be known and understood. “In particular”, he observes, “the African family welcomes life, and respects and takes into consideration the elderly. This heritage must be preserved, and serves as an example and impetus for others. The sacrament of marriage is a pastoral reality that is well accepted in your country, although there still exist barriers of a cultural and legal nature that prevent some couples from realising their wish to base their married life on faith in Christ. I encourage you to persevere in your effort to support families in difficulty … and to prepare couples for the commitments, demanding but magnificent, of Christian marriage. Togo is not immune to ideological and media attacks that come from all sides these days and which present models of unions and families incompatible with Christian faith. I am aware of the vigilance you show in this area, as well as your efforts, especially in the sector of communications”.

“But one of the keys to meeting the challenges presented to your communities and your societies is without doubt the formation of the young”, continues the bishop of Rome. “The Church-Family of God in Togo has chosen to stay close to children and young people who receive a good human and religious formation through numerous projects and initiatives. It is crucial that the young learn to life their faith with coherence, in order to bear witness to it with authenticity and to contribute to a more just and fraternal society. … Men and women religious play an indispensable role in the proclamation and transmission of faith in Togo. … I encourage you always to show paternal care towards the various Institutes. Their numbers are growing rapidly, and their development should be well accompanied; attention should also be paid to the formation of the youngest among them, in particular, to avoid amalgamation at the level of faith and inculturation. … Vocations are numerous in Togo and seminarians receive good formation in the seminaries … which must later help them in their battle against ambition, careerism, jealousy, worldliness, the seduction of money and worldly goods, and in living a sincere and joyful celibacy. I recommend special attention to the spiritual and pastoral care of young priests, and to be open to listening to their experiences”.

The Pope remarks that in recent years Togolese society has made significant progress in the political and social fields, and that “the Catholic Church has made extensive contributions to this, not only through her works of evangelisation and human promotion, but also through her commitment to justice and reconciliation. I thank you warmly for your efforts in this area, especially for your work in the Commission for Truth, Justice and Reconciliation. I encourage you to continue, ensuring that the Church occupies the place due to her in the the process of institutional reforms. ... However, it is always necessary to take care not to enter directly into political debate or disputes , taking care instead to form, encourage and support the laity – whose role this rightly is – so they are able to dedicate themselves to the service of the nation and the highest level and to assume their responsibilities”.

“I am glad that this service to Togolese society is also an opportunity for joint action with other Christian communities, as shown by various joint appeals to the nation. In the same way, in matters of interreligious dialogue, it is always necessary to promote, and perhaps further develop, the culture of dialogue and encounter, given that you enjoy peaceful co-existence especially with Islam, a co-existence that must be maintained considering the current situation in Western Africa. 'Interreligious dialogue is a necessary condition for peace in the world, and so it is a duty for Christians as well as other religious communities'. It is particularly important for young priests to receive a solid education in this matter”, concludes the Holy Father.

Pope Francis Encourages Bishops of Mozambique to Always Live Among the Faithful

Vatican Information Service || 09 May 2015

The bishops of the Episcopal Conference of Mozambique were received this morning by the Pope at the end of their “ad Limina” visit. In the written discourse that he handed to them during the audience, he first recalls Jesus' question to the apostle Peter: “Do you love me?”, and before the latter's affirmative response He asked him to be the shepherd to His flock. Christ, Who made Himself poor for us, requires of the bishops the same love for their own flock, along with their full availability and complete commitment. He calls them to set aside false presumptions in order to “wash the feet of those the Lord has entrusted to us”.

Francis goes on to emphasise that in the pastoral ministry of the bishops, priests occupy a very special role as “if God sends us to love our neighbour, the closest neighbours of a bishop are the priests, indispensable collaborators”, for whom they must always keep their “heart, hand and door” open. “Time spent with them is never wasted”, he remarks. The Pope also comments that the fruitfulness of the episcopal and priestly mission cannot be measured by the number of collaborators, the prestige of the institution, or the quantity of resources available. Instead, what counts is “being pervaded with Christ's love, allowing oneself to be led by the Holy Spirit, and grafting one's own existence onto the tree of life, which is the Cross of the Lord”. From St. Paul, “insuperable model of the Christian missionary, we know that this means trying to conform to Jesus in His death to participate in His resurrection”. In his ministry the apostle “experienced suffering, weakness and defeat, but also joy and consolation”. “Jesus' paschal ministry is the heart of the mission of the Church”, affirms Francis. “If you abide in this mystery, you will be protected both from a worldly and triumphalist vision of the mission, and the disappointment that may arise when faced with trials and failures”.

“However, will there continue to be missionaries like Paul, men and women holding on to Christ's cross, denuded of everything so as to be able to embrace the Whole?”, asks the Pope. “We must rejoice for these men and women totally consecrated to Christ”. He highlights that the witness of men and women religious in Mozambique, who devote themselves to assisting the poor, to the education of abandoned children, and helping those experiencing all kinds of hardship. He also praises the “heroic dedication” of many doctors and nurses, priests and nuns, who work in clinics and hospitals, and he invites the bishops to thank them, underlining the importance of the inclusion of religious communities in diocesan life. “They are not merely reserve material for the diocese, but rather, charisms that enrich”, he stressed.

The Pope exhorts the prelates to live among their faithful, also in the peripheries of their dioceses and in particular in the “existential peripheries”, where there is suffering, loneliness and human degradation, as “a bishop who lives among his faithful keeps his ears open to listen to what the Spirit says to the Churches and to the voice of his sheep”. He also notes the importance of the diocesan bodies which have the task of advising the bishops and assisting them “through the promotion of loyal and constructive dialogue: presbyteral council, pastoral council, council of economic affairs. It is unthinkable for a bishop not to count on these diocesan bodies. This also means being with the people. I also think at this point of your duty to reside in the diocese: listen to what your people want, what they want to see in their bishop, walk with them, stay close to them. You need this presence to live and, in a certain sense, to breathe”.

“The pastors and the faithful of Mozambique need to further develop a culture of encounter”, the Pope observes. “Jesus asks only one thing: that you go out in search of the neediest”. Among these, he mentions the victims of the natural disasters that recently sowed destruction, suffering and death throughout the country, thus increasing the number of displaced persons and refugees. “These people need us to share in their suffering, their worries, their problems. They need us to look upon them with love and you must reach out to them, like Jesus”.

Finally, the Pope offers an overview of all Mozambique, where the tensions and conflicts of recent years have undermined the social fabric, destroyed families and jeopardised the future of thousands of young people. “The most effective way of opposing the mentality of arrogance and inequality, as well as social divisions, it to invest in the field of education, which teaches the young to think critically, and offers a path towards maturity in values. In this sense, it is appropriate to raise awareness among leaders in society and to revive pastoral ministry in universities and schools, combining the task of education with the proclamation of the Gospel. The needs are so great that they cannot be satisfied simply through individual initiatives or by a union of individuals educated in individualism. Community networks are needed to respond to social problems. There is a need for a union of forces and unity of direction: in this, the Episcopal Conference may help as it has among its functions the unitary dialogue with the political authority for the whole territory. In this respect, I encourage a decisive implementation of good relations with the government, not of dependency, but rather of solid collaboration”.

“Dear bishops”, he concludes, “spare no efforts in supporting the family and in the defence of life from conception to natural death. In this sense, remember the options appropriate to one of Christ's disciples and the beauty of being a mother, accompanied by the support of the family and the local community. The family must always be defended as the main source of fraternity, respect for others and the primary path of peace”.

Church Leaders in Ghana Call for a Long-Term Economic Plan for their Country

CANAA || By Damian Avevor, Ghana’s Catholic Standard || 11 May 2015

Members of the Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference (GCBC) together with leaders of the Christian Council of Ghana (CCG) have appealed to the government of Ghana to listen to the calls of individuals and groups including religious bodies for the development of a long-term national development plan for their country.

This was contained in a Press Statement at end of the Church leaders’ joint annual meeting, which took place at Osu in Accra (Ghana). Members of the two Church bodies prayed and deliberated on issues of both Church and national importance.

They meet once a year in May to deliberate on issues to foster unity and ecumenism as well as address issues of national and international concern.

“We have received with surprise news that Ghana faces a real and serious risk of falling into the league of High Debt Distress Countries (HDDC) from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on the basis of Ghana’s excessive borrowing and indebtedness which is estimated to be about 76 billion Ghana Cedis as at December last year,” the Church leaders revealed, calling on the government to do all it can to save the economy of their country.

The Church leaders saw the need to revisit both the spirit and agenda of the Senchi Consensus, which made concrete proposals to solve Ghana’s economic woes.

The Church leaders also called on the government to hasten the signing of the Education Partnership document and to put in place the necessary structures and systems to ensure that it works and is respected by all.

On National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), the Church leaders expressed their concerns with regard to the sustainability of the scheme and urged the government to be transparent to its citizens, proposing a broad stakeholder consultation as a way forward.

The leaders also called for an end to the persecution of Christians in Africa and around the world. They further appealed to African governments to do all they can to create the necessary conducive, political and socio-economic environments and employment opportunities for Africa’s unemployed youth.

Below is the full text of the statement, which was signed by Bishop Joseph Osei-Bonsu, President of the Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference and Rt. Rev. Prof. Emmanuel K. Martey, Chairman, Christian Council of Ghana.

PRESS STATEMENT BY THE CHRISTIAN COUNCIL OF GHANA AND THE GHANA CATHOLIC BISHOPS’ CONFERENCE

Preamble

Dearly beloved citizens and men and women of goodwill resident in Ghana, we, the heads of the Member-Churches of the Christian Council of Ghana and the members of the Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference, send you our warmest greetings of peace and love.

We believe that the joy of the Risen Lord and the hope of Easter still remain with you all.

Deliberations of the Joint Meeting

We have just concluded our May 2015 Annual Joint Meeting at Osu-Accra, during which we prayed and deliberated on issues of both Church and national importance. At the end of our meeting, we feel obliged as Christian leaders of our land to bring the following pertinent issues affecting our country to the attention of our Government and our citizens so we can all participate in the process of fashioning out a plan of action to address these issues together as one united people.

National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS)

We have followed with worry and anxiety all the happenings about the National Health Insurance Scheme and wish to state that we are very concerned about the sustainability of the Scheme if the current difficulties with it are not resolved expeditiously.

The continuous and repeated failure to reimburse facilities on time, the incessant threats of service withdrawal by service providers, among others, continue to plague the Scheme. Our health facilities are collapsing under the Scheme and the frustration of both staff and patients is unbearable.

In the present circumstances, therefore, we invite Government as a matter of urgency to come out to inform the citizenry about the true state of the Scheme and give us a clear roadmap for its sustainability or otherwise. We will equally appreciate a broad stakeholder consultation on the issue and we are ready to lead the process. Our institutions pioneered health insurance schemes in the country before it was adopted as a national policy.

Memorandum of Understanding on Church – State Partnership in Education

Over the years, Religious and other Bodies with schools have partnered the State in education service delivery and this has ensured easy access, academic excellence and holistic moral upbringing of students in schools. Unfortunately, the absence of any document to guide this Partnership over the years has led to the gradual and systematic weakening of our stake in education delivery, evident in the lack of collaboration with our Educational Managers, the withdrawal of their stipends and the general frustration of their work by some officials of the Ghana Education Service.

We think that it is truly unfair and objectionable to continue to ignore Religious and other Bodies who are major stakeholders in education service delivery in Ghana. We therefore call on Government as a matter of urgency to hasten the signing of the Education Partnership document and put in place the necessary structures and systems to ensure that it works and is respected by all.

Ghana’s Economy

We have received with surprise news that Ghana faces a real and serious risk of falling into the league of High Debt Distress Countries (HDDC) from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on the basis of Ghana’s excessive borrowing and indebtedness which is estimated to be about 76 billion Ghana Cedis as at December last year. We believe this is a cause for worry considering the fact that we came out of HIPC not too long ago. We call on the Government to do all it can to save the economy of our country from its current unstable and precarious state.

Meanwhile, we sincerely think that there is the need to revisit both the spirit and agenda of the Senchi Consensus which made concrete proposals to solve Ghana’s economic woes. We wish to know whether it has been abandoned due to the IMF bailout package or it has been incorporated into it.

We also pray that Government will listen to the calls of individuals and groups including Religious Bodies for the development of a long-term National Development Plan for our country, and initiate the process to develop one that will be respected and implemented by successive governments.

District Assembly Elections and 2016 General Elections

We seek to know what the plans are for the suspended District Assembly elections as well as the road map for Ghana’s General Elections in 2016. We propose that the Electoral Commission should begin in earnest the process of engagement with all stakeholders on the way forward for these elections. Pertinent issues such as the Voters’ Register, Biometric verification, creation of constituencies, among others, need to be addressed now. Related critical issues include the needed reforms to Ghana’s electoral system as per the various recommendations and the early and transparent appointment of a new Chairman of the Electoral Commission.

The year 2016 may seem far but it is not. Thus, we appeal to the EC to act expeditiously.

Constitution Review Process

We are not happy about the fact that the Constitution review process seems stalled and yet there is no feedback from Government to citizens on plans to either continue or discontinue the process. We are aware of the case pending before the Supreme Court but we will be glad to receive information on how the process will be carried forward in the aftermath of this case so that we can all participate actively and fully in the process.

Petroleum Exploration and Revenue Management

It is our hope that proposals for the amendment of the current Petroleum Revenue Management Act, 2011 (Act 815) will be considered in the light of the good of Ghana so that Ghana and its citizens will be the greatest beneficiaries of the oil and gas find. We welcome Government’s efforts to introduce appropriate legislation to address current challenges of Petroleum exploration and production and call for an open and inclusive process with relevant stakeholders to achieve a good law.

We are also unhappy about the funding arrangements made for the oversight responsibility of the Public Interest and Accountability Committee (PIAC) which has remained a big challenge for some time now and call on government and corporate Ghana to help address this difficulty.

Power Outages in Ghana (Dumsor)

The current unfortunate situation of dumsor is seriously affecting the overall economy of the country. Industries, businesses and other social and economic activities are dying off gradually and systematically. In spite of Government’s promises and actions to ameliorate the situation, for close to 3 years, we have seen no improvement. We vehemently condemn the lack of serious practical short-term solutions to the crisis. Things are really hard for the productivity sector and waiting for too long will not do us any good.

Persecution of Christians in the World

We have noted with sadness and grief the systematic and persistent persecution and murder of Christians on the African continent and elsewhere in the world by Islamist terrorist groups. We strongly condemn these atrocities and call on all Ghanaians to pray for an end to these senseless killings.

In this connection, we commend the National Chief Imam, Sheik Dr. Usumanu Nuhu Sharubutu, for his appeal to Imams and leaders of the Muslim communities in Ghana to caution members of their congregations against the possible penetration of ideological influence of extremist groups. In particular, we commend him for his appeal to Imams to use their sermons to encourage members of their congregations to be watchful to identify and expose foreigners who may infiltrate the communities with signs of connection with extremists groups like Boko Haram and Al Qaeda, among others. As Ghanaians, we must continue to live in peace and harmony with one another and eschew all acts and tendencies that may bring ethnic, religious or political conflicts to Ghana.

Migration outside Africa

We are saddened by the news of many African migrants perishing in the deserts of northern Africa and the Mediterranean Sea and call on African states and Governments to institute proactive measures to curb this menace. We strongly urge African governments to do all they can to create the necessary conducive political and socio-economic environments and employment opportunities for our teeming unemployed youth. We equally encourage African youth to stay in their home countries and work hard to earn their daily keep. They must not assume that Europe and other places outside Africa guarantee automatic comforts and pleasure.

Conclusion

We pray that the peace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God and the communion of the Holy Spirit may be with us all. God bless our homeland Ghana and make our nation great and strong!

SIGNED

MOST REV. JOSEPH OSEI-BONSU

PRESIDENT, GHANA CATHOLIC BISHOPS’ CONFERENCE

RT. REV. PROF. EMMANUEL K. MARTEY                   

CHAIRMAN, CHRISTIAN COUNCIL OF GHANA

Step up War on Terrorists, Leaders of Mainstream Churches Tell Kenya President

Kenya’s Daily Nation || By Samuel Karanja || 11 May 2015

Religious leaders from the mainstream churches on Monday put pressure on President Uhuru Kenyatta’s government to improve security.

At an emotional memorial service for the 142 students who were killed by terrorists during an attack on the Garissa University College last month, the clerics, who included John Cardinal Njue of the Catholic Church and Archbishop Eliud Wabukala of the Anglican Church, also called for unity between Christians and Muslims.

They spoke in Nairobi in the wake of recent terrorist attacks, which have targeted Christians. Al-Shabaab has claimed responsibility for the killings.

As the clerics were leading prayers on the atrocity, the worst since the Westgate massacre of September 2013, Zombe AIC Girls Secondary was closed down only hours after suspected terrorists were said to have targeted the institution run by the African Independent Church.

Shots were fired on Sunday nights as police sought to flush out five men suspected to have been planning an attack.

The school in Kitui County sent students home as the local police boss said security had been beefed up in other institutions within the region as the five suspects remained at large.

During Monday’s memorial at Ufungamano House, Archbishop Wabukala said the 142 students who were killed by terrorists should not be forgotten. He proposed that the attack be commemorated every year in May.

While calling on the authorities to ensure security for every Kenyan, the Most Rev Wabukala regretted that the country had not learnt any lessons from past terrorist attacks.

“We should not continue to condone the culture of short memory, this (attack) is an event which should not be forgotten,” he said. “Those who lost loved ones should get justice.”

He regretted that while the police arrest terrorism suspects, the conclusion of the cases against them was not always known to the public.

“Justice should be seen to be realised,” he said.

Cardinal Njue asked religious leaders to preach peace and counsel the youth to ensure that they do not fall into the trap of radicalisation.

INTERLLECTUAL DIALOGUE

“We must launch an intellectual dialogue with other religious leaders to build peace,” he said, but added that the loss of innocent lives, such as the killing of innocent students, must not be allowed to happen again.

His sentiments were echoed by Mombasa Diocese Bishop Martin Kivuva, who said fear had engulfed many Kenyans following the increased terrorist attacks and especially the devastating one at the Garissa University College.

“We should not revenge but we should pray and show love to those not of our Christian faith,” he said.

During the raid on the university college on April 2, Muslim students were not harmed. Other attacks, including the shooting of 28 people — most of them teachers — in a bus travelling from Garissa to Nairobi last November, have also targeted Christians.

Another institution in Garissa, a branch of the Kenya Medical Training College, was also closed due to fears that the students could be attacked.

A month ago, a student died on the Kikuyu Campus of the University of Nairobi, after a terrorist scare sparked by exploding electricity cables.

Over 100 others were injured in the ensuing stampede as some jumped from hostel windows during the early morning incident.

And two weeks ago, eight international medical students left the Maua Methodist Hospital, about 50 kilometres from Meru town, due to a terrorist attack scare.

Four were from the Hong Kong University in China while the other four were from Texas University in the United States.

And speaking in Meru on Monday, a former Presbyterian Church of East Africa (PCEA) Moderator, the Rev David Gathanju, called for paramilitary training in learning institutions to enable students defend themselves during terrorist attacks.

Speaking at Gitoro PCEA Church during the laying of the church’s foundation, the Rev Gathanju also proposed that the government set aside more funds for fight insecurity.

Already, the National Treasury has increased allocation to the police and military in the next Budget to improve security. The Budget estimates will be presented in Parliament next month.

On Monday, other evangelical church leaders also called for unity between Christians and Muslims.

The Rev Silas Yego of the African Inland Church, the Rev Joseph Ntombura of the Methodist Church, and Bishop Mark Kariuki of Deliverance Church, joined in the Ufungamano prayers, which also included a candle-lighting ceremony in memory of those who were killed.

“It is important as a church to become one and speak in one voice,” said Bishop Kariuki.

The British High Commissioner to Kenya, Dr Christian Turner, was also present during the service.

Below is the full text of the statement by the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) at the end of their five-day meeting in Nairobi, which ended on Friday, May 8, 2015. The meeting saw Bishop Philip Anyolo of Homabay diocese elected the new KCCB Chairman and Bishop John Oballa Owaa of Ngong diocese elected as the KCCB Vice Chairman.

PRESS STATEMENT BY THE KENYA CONFERENCE

OF CATHOLIC BISHOPS (KCCB)

“Do not be afraid, I am with you, for I am your God.” (Isaiah 41:10)
 
Preamble
Dear Christians, fellow Kenyans and all people of good will, we, the Catholic Bishops in Kenya, meeting at St. Thomas Aquinas Seminary in Nairobi from 4^th to 8^th of May, 2015 greet you in the name of Our Lord Jesus Christ.  Peace be with you!

Coming after our Ad Limina visit to the Holy See, on April 13-17^th, 2015, we bring you blessings and prayerful wishes from the Holy Father, Pope Francis. He assures you, dear Kenyans and the entire Family of God of his prayers and solidarity especially in these trying moments for Christians.

During our Ordinary Plenary Assembly, we have taken stock, reflected deeply on the state of the Nation and have identified the following issues of great concern:

State of insecurity

We began our meeting as the sad news of the horrific slaughter of more than 50 Kenyans in the North Rift and other parts of the country, reached us.

We share the pain of the families and friends who have lost their dear ones.

Dear Kenyans, this is not the first time that lives have been lost in this area. You recall that over 42 security officers were killed in the region in November 2013.

These killings come barely a month after we lost 148 young Kenyans in a terror attack at the Garissa University College. In less than a month, we have lost more than 200 Kenyans to senseless killings. These murders including the deliberate targeting of Christians for execution are unacceptable.

It is sad, that despite many promises, threats and ultimatums which have become the norm from the Government very little is done, and the same tragic cycle of death continues.

Kenyans are worried and desperate. The Government, which swore to protect Kenyans, seems hopelessly incapable of offering permanent solutions to perennial insecurity.

In the case of the North Rift, we have constantly warned that the conflict in the region is worsening, especially after the discovery of oil and other minerals. Hundreds if not thousands of lives have been lost in this perennial conflict that has erroneously been called ‘cattle rustling’, but which we as Church leaders call brutal murder.

We will not relent in our call to Government to fulfil its constitutional mandate and protect all Kenyans. Time has now come to draw the line. A Government that cannot protect its own people loses its legitimacy to govern.

As a country, we cannot sit back as Kenyans continue to lose their lives due to laxity on the part of our security personnel. These murders in different parts of the country must stop.

Local leaders and other ‘untouchables’ who continue arming and inciting communities against each other must be dealt with. We have one government and one President. Decisive action must be taken.
Other conflict resolution mechanisms including disarmament, economic empowerment and local peace initiatives need strengthening.

Leadership and Integrity

In the recent past, we have witnessed a serious breach of the code of conduct of Leadership and Integrity by the State and Public Officers in total contravention of our constitution and moral values. Runaway corruption is almost crippling not only our economy but the entire country. State agencies set up to deal with corruption have failed the test of integrity.

While we commend the President for his decisive action of suspending state officers suspected of engaging in corruption, we demand that the process of handling corruption cases is fast, just and conclusive. We decry corruption and demand zero tolerance on the same. Let us unite to end corruption and save our country.

Blanket Adoption of Self Destructive Ideologies

Fellow Kenyans, we are deeply disturbed by the recent High Court ruling allowing the registration of an Association of Gays and Lesbians.  This is a deliberate attempt by certain individuals and institutions to push dangerous agendas and ideologies that are unnatural, un-African and un-Christian. It is a threat to the family.

What happened to the assurance by the Attorney General to the country and religious groups that the constitution would not legalise same sex unions?

Furthermore he Kenyan law outlaws gay sex and sodomy, how then does the same law allow gays and homosexuals to register their organisation? Is this not a legal contradiction?

Our stand as the Catholic Church on this issue is clear; that these unions go against nature and the teachings of the Bible - ‘He created them, male and female, and He blessed them.’ (Genesis 5: 2).

We will not allow our country to be a sowing ground for strange ideologies in pursuit of narrow economic interests. We categorically reject any agenda fronting this kind of unnatural ideologies.

Conclusion

Dear Kenyans, and people of good will, we, the Catholic Bishops in Kenya, urge you to remain prayerful and vigilant. We want to assure you, that we shall not tire of reminding the Government of its constitutional mandate to protect lives and provide basic services: that is our pledge to you.

May the Lord guide you and keep you safe now and forever more.

Signed: ________________________Date: May 8, 2015

Rt. Rev. Philip Anyolo Chairman - Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops
Rt. Rev. John Oballa Owaa, Vice Chairman (KCCB), Ngong
His Eminence John Cardinal Njue, Nairobi
Most Rev. Zacchaeus Okoth, Kisumu
Most Rev. Peter Kairo, Nyeri
Most Rev. Martin Kivuva Musonde, Mombasa
Rt. Rev. Paul Darmanin, Garissa
Rt. Rev. Cornelius Arap Korir, Eldoret
Rt. Rev. Joseph Mairura Okemwa, Kisii
Rt. Rev. Alfred Rotich, Military Ordinariate
Rt. Rev. Maurice Crowley, Kitale
Rt. Rev. Norman Wambua King’oo, Bungoma
Rt. Rev. Peter Kihara, IMC, Marsabit
Rt. Rev. David Kamau Ng’ang’a, Aux. Bishop Nairobi
Rt. Rev. Anthony Ireri Mukobo, IMC, Isiolo Vicariate
Rt. Rev. Virgilio Pante, Maralal
Rt. Rev. Salesius Mugambi, Meru
Rt. Rev. Emmanuel Okombo, Kericho
Rt. Rev. Anthony Muheria, Kitui Apostolic Administrator, Machakos
Rt. Rev. James Maria Wainaina, Muranga
Rt. Rev. Paul Kariuki Njiru, Embu
Rt. Rev. Maurice Muhatia Makumba, Nakuru
Rt. Rev. Dominic Kimengich, Lodwar
Rt. Rev. Emmanuel Barbara,  Malindi
Rt. Rev. Joseph Mbatia, Nyahururu
Rt. Rev. Joseph Alessandro, Co-Adjutor Bishop Garissa
Rt. Rev. Joseph Obanyi Sagwe, Kakamega

Zambian Minister: Let Us Follow the Teaching of Pope Francis on Sharing

Vatican Radio || 05 May 2015

“As a Catholic, I feel rejuvenated each time I visit holy places in Rome especially the Sistine Chapel,” says Zambia’s minister of Agriculture and Livestock, Given Lubinda. The minister was recently in Rome, Italy for engagements with the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) as well as with the World Food Programme (WFP).

In an interview with Vatican Radio’s Fr. Paul Samasumo and speaking on a personal note as a Catholic, Lubinda said, “I am delighted that the team (at the Zambian Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock) when they were doing the programme for my stay in Rome managed to find a morning for me to visit the Vatican city. This morning I was in the Sistine chapel and it’s always a fantastic feeling to be there, “he said.

The Zambian minister described his visit to the Vatican’s holy places as a revitalising pilgrimage. He asserted that the Christian faith should spur believers, “to work towards uplifting the quality of life of our neighbour. Let us wear spectacles that make us see others before we see ourselves. Let us see the less privileged in our societies. We should follow the teaching of the Holy Father, Pope Francis, on sharing and sharing genuinely,” he added.

Addressing himself to Zambian society, in particular, minister Lubinda said that every Zambian has a duty and responsibility to build a one united Zambia.

“To my fellow Zambians, I would say, let us love each other beyond the political divide…and beyond the tribal divide; let us build one united Zambia that we can all treasure and cherish,” said Lubinda.

Nigerians Urged to Replace Selfishness with Promotion of Common Good

Catholic News Service of Nigeria (CNSN) || 06 May 2015

A call has been made for a change of mentality on the part of all Nigerians from self-centeredness to patriotism and promotion of the common good. The call was made by the Catholic Archbishop of Jos and President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), Most Rev. Ignatius Kaigama.

The Archbishop made the call in his homily at the Episcopal consecration of Monsignor Denis Chidi Isizoh as the Auxiliary Bishop of Onitsha, by  Francis Cardinal Arinze, at the Basilica of the Holy Trinity, Onitsha, Anambra State, recently.

The CBCN President declared: “While we demand good governance from those voted into positions of service, we demand equally a change of mentality on the part of all Nigerians beginning from the roadside corn seller, the mechanic, the filing station attendant, the messenger to the senior government officials, to change from selfish personal or narrow regional interests to what works for the good of all of us.”

Archbishop Kaigama while recalling the ills affecting development in the country to include failure of leadership, corruption, tribalism and religious fundamentalism, called on church ministers of prophetic “marketing”, who increased in the number during the last general elections period to stop bastardizing the work of God.

He noted that: “True Prophets should be praying for Nigeria’s progress instead of engaging in political gamble; and be concerned about helping Christians to be truly the salt and light of Nigeria as today’s gospel in Mt 5:13-16 encourages, so that God’s name may be glorified.” The Archbishop also called on the leaders of the country to domesticate the corporal works of mercy as advocated by the Catholic Church.

Giving the recipe for the building of a new Nigeria, Archbishop Kaigama advocated “a lessening of hatred/suspicion among ethnic/political groups and even among Christians where sometimes there is a very worrisome denominational antagonism.; adding, some aspects of Nigeria’s history have erected barriers and walls of prejudices that call for prayers for the healing of memory.”

Present at the ceremony were dignitaries from all walks of life within and outside the country, including the Vatican City where the new bishop worked as an official of the Roman Curia in the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue, before his appointment. Among the dignitaries were: John Cardinal Onaiyekan of Abuja Archdiocese, the Papal Nuncio to Nigeria, Archbishop Augustine Kasujja and about 56 members of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, led by its President, Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama.

Also in attendance were the Governor of Anambra State, Sir Willy Obianor; his predecessor, Mr Peter Obi, Senator  Umeh of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), party; top government officials, captains of industries, priests, religious, Knights of the Catholic Church and lay faithful from all parts of the country.

Use Your Vatican Experience to Help the Church in Nigeria

The new Auxiliary Bishop of Onitsha Archdiocese, Most Rev. Denis Chidi Isisoh has been urged to put his experience of working at the Vatican to help enhance the evangelization mission of the Church in Nigeria, especially in the ecclesiastical jurisdiction of Onitsha.

The call was made by the Papal Nuncio to Nigeria, Archbishop Augustine Kasujja while speaking at the Episcopal consecration ceremony of the new Bishop, held, recently, at the Basilica of the Holy Trinity, Onitsha, Anambra State.

Noting that the new bishop who will be 30 years a priest of the Catholic Church in September, this year, has lived in Rome for 26 years as a student, Secretary Assistant to Cardinal Francis Arinze and as an official of the Roman Curia in the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue, he has the necessary experience to contribute immeasurably to the growth of the Church in the country.

Archbishop Kasujja declared: “That long experience in the Vatican working in the offices of the Holy Father and near the tombs of the Apostles Peter & Paul are a real providential asset for your new mission as a Bishop and a member of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria.”

He added: “Your presence in Nigeria where ecumenism and dialogue are a necessity for a peaceful and integrated society will surely bear new fruits of faith for the Church and progress in the State.” The Nuncio continued: “Besides, that long experience in the Vatican, the Holy Father has entrusted you to an experienced Pastor, Archbishop Valerian Okeke, so that you may be enabled to carry out your duties as an exemplary Good Shepherd, who bears the scent or smell of the sheep, sensitive to the needs of the people and serves them with maximum charity.”

Archbishop Kasujja called on the faithful of the Archdiocese to collaborate with the new bishop so that the apostolate of the Church in “Onitsha may experience a new spring and the Archbishop may feel well encouraged and assisted.” 

The ceremony was attended by dignitaries from all walks of life within and outside the country, including the Vatican City where the new bishop worked as an official of the Roman Curia in the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue, before his appointment. Among the dignitaries were: John Cardinal Onaiyekan of Abuja Archdiocese, the Papal Nuncio to Nigeria, Archbishop Augustine Kasujja, 56 members of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, led by its President, Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama, governors, captains of industries, priests, religious and lay faithful from all parts of the country.

Pope Francis Thanks Bishops of Mali for Safeguarding Interreligious Dialogue

Vatican Radio || 07 May 2015

The peaceful coexistence among believers of different religions, the safeguarding of interreligious dialogue, the common commitment of Christians and Muslims in defense of cultural heritage, promotion of women, and the consolidation of the family were some of the topics that Pope Francis addressed in the speech he delivered this morning to the bishops of the Episcopal Conference of Mali, at the end of their “ad limina” visit. Following are extensive excerpts from the address.

I would like to direct your attention toward the person of Christ in the delicate situation that your country has faced in recent years, including security challenges. At times, this situation has undermined the coexistence between the various sectors of society as well as the harmony between men and women of different religions present in the land of Mali, which is rich with a glorious past, synonymous with admirable traditions among which are tolerance and cohesion. I thank your Episcopal Conference for knowing how to preserve the spirit of interreligious dialogue in this delicate context. The common commitment of Christians and Muslims to safeguard the Mali's cultural treasures, especially the large libraries of Timbuktu, patrimony of humanity, is an eloquent example. When you return, I want you to express my nearness, not only to your faithful, but also to your fellow citizens of all social classes and religions, men and women of good will involve in the fight against intolerance and exclusion.

In this situation, the Christian communities and their pastors are called to give an even greater witness to their faith based on the unconditional acceptance of the Gospel values. You are already following this path in translating the Bible into local languages because, in order to live the Word of God and to witness to it faithfully, we must first know it, diligently study it, and assimilate it. In this sense, the efforts made in your dioceses to develop new Catechesis manuals are to be welcomed. Thanks to a solid formation, the lives of the faithful will be even more rooted in faith and strengthened to withstand all threats.

Despite the serious problems facing it, the Church in Mali shows a beautiful dynamic in its work of evangelization, preserving a profound respect of conscience. Christ's followers grow in number and fervor. But the Christian witness of the family still needs greater coherence. In your cultural context, also marked by divorce and polygamy, Catholics are called upon to concretely proclaim, through their witness, to the Gospel, life, and the family. I also encourage you to continue your pastoral work, paying particular attention to the situation of women: promoting the role of women in society and fighting against abuse and violence toward women is also a way of proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ, who chose to be born of a woman, the Virgin Mary.

If in any particular church the synergy inspired by charity is needed to ensure its credibility, then your context of the charity and unity lived in the Church are among the most important signs of fruitful dialogue with other religions, an expression of authentic Christian witness... It is to be hoped that even nowadays these witnesses of members of other religions toward our Christian communities multiply.

Likewise, the Gospel lived in its authentic dimension of charity should inspire social ministry. The Church is present in Mali in the areas of education for peace and your Christian communities actively contribute to promoting genuine national reconciliation. In congratulating you for your pastoral sensitivity in the field of promoting the human person without consideration limited to ethnic or religious affiliation, I would like to pay tribute to the many Christians who spread the culture of solidarity and hospitality, especially in facing the violence of the last years.

Dear Brothers in the Episcopate, strengthened by the Lord's promise to be with his family until the end of time, I am convinced that despite the difficulties on their path, the Church in Mali will continue to be a testament to hope and peace.

Passionist Priest Appointed New Bishop in DR Congo

CANAA || By Fr. Don Bosco Onyalla || 07 May 2015

On Wednesday, May 6, 2015, Pope Francis appointed Father Emery Kibal Mansong'loo as bishop of the diocese of Kole in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo).

A member of the religious congregation of the Passionists, the bishop-elect is a native of Kimputu, the diocese of Idiofa in the ecclesiastical province of Kinshasa, where he was born on June 28, 1969.

The religious community of the Passionists was founded by St. Paul of the Cross, one of the great saints and mystics of the Catholic Church. The members serve as preachers, retreat givers, pastors, educators and in many other ministries in the Church.

Faithful to the charism of St Paul of the Cross, the Mission of the Passionists is to keep alive in the world the love of Jesus Crucified as seen in His Sacred Passion.

The bishop-elect entered the Congregation of the Passionist Fathers in 1988 after having completed his primary and secondary school.

He studied Philosophy at the St Augustin Institute in Kinshasa and theology in Tangaza College in Nairobi-Kenya.

Since his ordination to the priesthood on August 2, 1998, the bishop-elect has served in various pastoral and academic roles, namely, assistant priest of the Holy Family of Ototo, in the diocese of Tshumbe (1998-1999); Pastor of the Catholic Mission of LUMBI, Diocese of Kikwit (999-2002); Studies for a Licentiate in Liturgy at the Pontifical University of St. Anselm in Rome (2002-2005); Provincial Superior of the Passionists, for two successive mandates; at the same time, professor of Liturgy at the Saint Augustin University, the Saint Eugene de Maznod Institute and the Inter-novitiate of women's Congregations (2005-2013); President of ASUMA (2008-2013); and member of the Board of Directors of the Catholic University of Congo (2011-2013).

Since 2013, 45-year-old bishop-elect has been residing at the Scholasticate of the Institute in Kinshasa.

He will be succeeding Bishop Stanislas Lukumwena Lumbala who resigned in 2008.

Bishop Fridolin Ambongo Besungu, OFM Cap, of Bokungu-Ikela has been the Apostolic Administrator of Kole, which has some 158,000 Catholics in a population of 487,000 (32%) and served by some 65 priests and 80 religious.

AMARC Launches an International Legal Protection Program for Community Broadcasters

AMARC || 30Apil 2015

On the occasion of World Press Freedom Day 2015, the World Association of Community Radio Broadcasters (AMARC) launches its International legal protection and global advocacy program for the community media sector. Despite great regulatory advancements of the community media movement at the international level, on the national level, the lack of clear legal frameworks, or their complete absence, is still an impediment to the full development of the community media sector as a public space for dialogue and debate.

Recently, this dichotomy became evidence. In 2014, Radio Estéreo Luz and Radio La Voz de Sonora, located in the western department of Quiché, Guatemala, have been shut down and their equipment have been seized. In Egypt, Internet Radio Horytna was recently persecuted because of illegal internet streaming. In April 2015, in Mexico, Abel Manuel Bautista Raymundo, founder and director of Radio Espacio 96.1 FM in Juxtlahuaca, Oaxaca state, was murdered. In Sweden, commercial radios are still operating on community radio frequencies. This indicates that community radio licences are becoming less a resource for non-profit associations and more an opportunity for commercial operators who can circumvent the formal commercial radio sector and its official responsibilities, including concession fees to the government.

These recent examples show the need of an International legal program for community radios. “With this program – commented Francesco Diasio, Secretary General of AMARC – we want to address the legal issues related to community broadcasters with both a proactive and reactive approach. The first approach will foster and enhance the policy work to be done with other Civil Society Organizations and policy makers to ensure that frequency planning, technical standards for telecommunications and radio, and development resources are giving a high priority to the needs of civil society. On the other hand, the creation of a legal office will support the community media sector under the perspective of access (new broadcasters) and defence (broadcasters in danger).”

Community radios are front-line actors in the defense of the right to communicate. They remain the guarantors of pluralism, defenders of freedom of information and exchange of ideas. Their contribution is crucial for the exercise of freedom of expression and freedom of the press.

On this important occasion, AMARC also wishes to reiterates its solidarity to the people of Nepal and urges its network to stay mobilized to help and support the Nepalese community radios that have been damaged by the recent earthquake.

Nigerian Bishop Urges Catholic Media to be Proactive in the Promotion of Family Values

Catholic News Service of Nigeria (CNSN) || 30Apil 2015

Bishop Emmanuel Badejo of Oyo Diocese has called on Catholic Media Practitioners to be more proactive in their apostolate and initiate authentic practical programmes that will facilitate the promotion of family values in the context of the teaching of the Church.

The call is contained in a keynote address to the 2015 plenary meeting of Nigerian diocesan and religious directors of communication. The directors of Catholic media met recently at a training workshop for Catholic Media Practitioners at the Bishop Kelly Pastoral Centre, Benin City, Edo State in Nigeria.

In his address entitled, “The Role of the Media in Communicating Family Values,” the local Ordinary of Oyo Diocese challenged Catholic media practitioners to enhance their knowledge of the teachings of the Church on the promotion of family values in order to be able to influence the position of the secular media in this perspective.

He added, “It is the duty and challenge of Church communicators  at whatever level  to provide access, understanding and acceptance of these teachings and resources in digestible and attractive forms, so that the secular, popular media may be enriched to play their proper role for communicating values within families,” Bishop Badejo said.

Bishop Badejo who is the current Episcopal Chair of communication for the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM) declared, “What my address amounts to therefore is to remind us here that the media simply cannot understand their role in the family unless we who are Catholic Media Practitioners help them to do so.” He continued, “We, on the other hand cannot help the media if, we ourselves, do not know the Church’s teaching, perspectives and resources available for supporting the family in that regard,” he said.

While expressing the hope that the training workshop would not just be limited to intellectual reflections that have no bearing on the very pastoral identity of the directors of communication, Bishop Badejo stressed, “It is only by emphasising and enhancing our own identity as Catholic Media Practitioners that we can correctly influence the media world to which we professionally belong,” he concluded.

The three-day training workshop had Pope Francis’ 2015 World Day of Communications message - Communicating the Family: A Privileged Place to Encounter with the Gift of Love as its theme. The event was attended by over 70 diocesan and religious directors of communication as well as other lay Catholic media practitioners from most dioceses of Nigeria.

Papers presentated at the workshop were on “How is the Family is Represented in Nigeria Media” by Fr. Christian Anyanwu, CSN Director of Social Communications and on “Using the Social Media to Promote Family Values” presented by Fr. Walter Ihejirika of the University of Port Harcourt.

 Other speakers and presenters were Fr. Gerald Musa of the Centre for the Study of African Culture and Communication (CESACC), Catholic Institute of West Africa (CIWA), whose paper was premised on “How to Use Radio and Television to Promote Family Values.”  The Administrative Secretary of the Directorate of Social Communications at the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN) Otunba Jide Fadugba-Pinheiro made a presentation on, “Making Catholic Newspapers Family Friendly.”

Catholic Laity in Malawi Raise Funds to Support Formation of Future Priests

Episcopal Conference of Malawi (ECM) || By ECM Communications || 04 May 2015

The Chairman for the Episcopal Conference of Malawi (ECM), His Grace Archbishop Thomas Luke Msusa of Blantyre Archdiocese has commended the Catholic laity in Malawi for supporting the Church through various initiatives, which are well organized and patronized at the same time. Archbishop Msusa was speaking at Bingu International Conference Centre (BICC) last Friday (April 24, 2015) during a fundraising dinner and dance for Kachebere Major Seminary which celebrates its Platinum Jubilee (75 years) this year, 2015.

“On behalf of my fellow Bishops and indeed on my own behalf, I would like to thank you all for supporting the Church in various ways. I would like to particularly thank the laity and more especially those from Lilongwe for fundraising initiatives which you have been conducting and have proven to be successful at the end of the day,” he said while referring to other successful activities that led to a successful AMECEA Plenary of 2014, and the Kachebere Major Seminary’s fundraising dinner and dance.

Archbishop Msusa said Malawi managed to host a successful and historical AMECEA Plenary last year because there was proper collaboration between all stakeholders including the laity hence a challenge for a continued support to the Church-more particularly during this year’s Platinum Jubilee for Kachebere Seminary.

The Missionaries who used to assist the local Church all along built the Seminary way back in 1939. “But time has come that the Church in Malawi should take full responsibility in supporting the only Philosophical College of the Catholic Church in the country”, said he.

Speaking at the same function, His Lordship Bishop Martin Mtumbuka of Karonga diocese and also Chairman for Seminaries at the Episcopal Conference of Malawi said Kachebere Major Seminary, which is also known as St. Anthony Seminary, is facing numerous challenges ranging from renovations to the school’s structures, seminarian’s welfare among others.

Bishop Mtumbuka was however quick to warn the Seminarians of not taking for granted every single assistance that the Catholic Church through it laity renders to the Seminary.

“I would like to warn you Seminarians never to take the support from the faithful and people of goodwill for granted. It’s high time you became serious with your vocation. The laity out there would not want to have priests who are irresponsible when you finish up your studies,” Bishop Mtumbuka warned as he faced the representatives of Seminarians who witnessed the dinner and dance event.

Mr Peter Kulemeka, Chairperson for the organizing committee of the event, said the event was a success and projected that the money that would be realized at that particular day would be far much more that the money raised during all other fundraising events that his committee has organized, as he acknowledged the massive support this time around.

He commended individuals and companies like Blantyre Newspapers Limited (BNL), Nation Publications Limited (NPL), Zodiak Broadcasting Station (ZBS), and Catholic Media Houses that includes; Radio Maria, Radio Tigabane, Tuntufye Radio and Luntha Television for supporting the event with free space and air time for adverts.

The Vice President of the Republic of Malawi Right Honorable Saulos Chilima came as a Catholic Christian and also made a contribution by donating in cash and kind. His Grace Archbishop Msusa announced that a certain family from Blantyre, which did not disclose their name, also donated a sum of K1 Million towards the event.

Other notable faces that attended the event included Minister of Gender, Children, Social Welfare and Disability, Hon. Patricia Kaliati; Minister of Sports and Culture, Hon. Grace Chiumia and Principal Secretary for Presidential Initiative on Safe Motherhood, Chimwemwe Chipungu. Also available at the event were all the Bishops in Malawi.

Live performance of Kalimba Band and Kachebere Seminary’s Choir spiced up the event with songs.

Pope Francis Thanks Congolese Bishops for Zeal in the Work of Evangelization, Encourages the Mission of the Laity

Vatican Radio || 04 May 2015

Pope Francis on Monday encouraged bishops from the Republic of Congo to continue in their efforts of cooperation with other faiths because “unity in diversity is a feature of the Church’s requirements”.

The Pope was addressing the Bishops from Congo who are in the Vatican for their Ad Limina visit.
 
In his discourse the Pope expressed his joy before the “young and dynamic Christian communities seeking to take root in the love of the Lord”.

He said the recent creation of three new dioceses shows the vitality of the Catholic Church in Congo, and the zeal of its pastors in their push for evangelization. 

Pope Francis had special words for the mission of the laity in the Church and in society. Commenting with gratitude on their “remarkable contribution to the work of evangelization” he reminded the bishops that it is important that they receive adequate pastoral help so they are able to rediscover and strengthen their vocation as "credible witnesses.”

Lay people – he said - have a need to be accompanied and to be trained in their witness to the Gospel in socio-political areas. And he specifically pointed out their role in the Pastoral care of families.

And regarding the pastoral care of families the Pope said the faithful in Congo are in need of support which involves not only inculturation but also attention towards local culture.

In this regard – the Pope said – “I want to thank you for the contribution of your Dioceses to the Synod of Bishops on the family”.

Pope Francis then reminded the bishops that priests are their first collaborators. Consequently – he said: “their living conditions and their sanctification shall not cease to be the heart of your concerns”.

And in particular he indicated education as the indispensable tool so they can always better serve the people of God offering appropriate spiritual support and worthy liturgical celebrations with good homilies that nourish the faith of believers. 

In this regard – he said: “I invite you to continue to ensure the conditions for sending priests of your dioceses to study abroad, to support them during their time of stay outside the country and to facilitate their return so the good of the Church may always be safeguarded”.

The Pope gave thanks for the many priestly and religious vocations which flourish in the dioceses of the Republic of Congo, vocations – he said – which speak to your apostolic zeal.

He pointed out that the immense pastoral needs of the local Church require zealous pastors who with their own witness can give guidance in all sorts of areas.

In this Year of the consecrated life – Pope Francis continued - “I welcome the commitment of men and women religious serving the populations in the Congo, and providing both spiritual and material assistance with dedication and by being witnesses to Christ with a lifestyle which is chaste, poor and obedient”.

He called for the harmonious collaboration between Bishops and consecrated people which - he said - promotes the preaching of the Gospel and promotes the growth of the local Church in the diversity of all the charisms which are present.

And referring to the difficulties experienced by some dioceses because of the lack of material and financial resources, the Pope encouraged the bishops to show solidarity and to continue to ensure economic aid to some Churches in order to support their mission.

In this regard he invited the bishops never to limit the freedom of the pastors or the particular Church which must be able to be autonomous and must always have free hand to announce the Gospel with credibility.

“As for mutual aid and solidarity among local Churches – Pope Francis said -  these  must be reflected in the promotion of the missionary spirit first promoted within Africa: I readily recall the solemn appeal by my predecessor Blessed Pope Paul VI in Kampala: ‘You Africans you are now your own missionaries’"

Pope Francis continued his address inviting all Church members to speak with one voice, enunciating strong words that inspired by the Gospel.

He said they are called to guide and to enlighten their compatriots on numerous aspects of community life, in difficult times for the nation or when circumstances require. 

In this sense – he said – “your efforts of ever greater cooperation are to continue because unity in diversity a feature of the Church's requirements, as Body of Christ. Not only this cohesion will still allow you to defend the common good and the good of the Church before any court, but it will also encourage your efforts to face together the many pastoral challenges, including the proliferation of sects”.

The Pope also called on the Bishops of Congo to promote the human person.

“Here too, the commitment of the Catholic Church in Congo is important: whether be it in the field of education, health, and assistance to various categories of people in need including refugees from neighboring countries neighbors”. In all of these – he said – “your diocesan communities contribute significantly”. 

And encouraging the bishop to continue to ensure that the social ministry is realized in the spirit of the Gospel, the Pope said it must be perceived as a work of evangelization, and not as the action of a Non-Governmental Organization.

In this regard the Pope recalled the wounds inflicted on society by the serious crisis that affected the Congo in the late 1990s “leaving deep scars that sometimes are not yet completely healed”.

He said that in this area in particular, the Church received the mission to reconcile hearts, reconcile divided communities and build a new fraternity rooted in forgiveness and solidarity: “You pastors continue to be models and prophets in this sense!”