The Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM) (https://SECAM.org) and your entire Church, Household of God in Africa and its Islands be part of the common Church in mourning the passing of our beloved Holy Father, Pope Francis.
Pope Francis has been greater than a shepherd to the common Church; he has been a profound supply of inspiration, significantly for us in Africa. His unwavering dedication to social justice, peace, and the dignity of each human being resonated deeply with our continent’s struggles and aspirations. All through his papacy, he visited Africa, taking the time to grasp our realities, take heed to our tales, and amplify our voices on the worldwide stage. His visits to varied nations on the continent introduced hope and like to numerous individuals and reaffirmed the Church’s dedication to being a household.
In his encyclicals, significantly “Fratelli Tutti,” Pope Francis championed the dignity of all, urging us to embrace a tradition of encounter and fraternity. His advocacy for the setting, primarily based on a deep appreciation for our frequent house, and his emphasis on the significance of dialogue have impressed us to take motion in addressing the urgent points going through our communities at this time. He courageously referred to as us to embrace the spirit of synodality, encouraging all members of the Church to stroll collectively, pay attention to 1 one other, and construct a extra inclusive and loving neighborhood.
As we mirror on his legacy throughout this time of mourning, we’re reminded of the Easter promise of resurrection—a message of hope that transcends even loss of life. We honor Pope Francis’s life by persevering with his mission of affection and repair, striving to construct a Church that’s actually inclusive and a world that displays God’s kingdom.
We lengthen our heartfelt condolences to your entire Catholic Church and to all who had been touched by his ministry and love. We invite the trustworthy throughout Africa and Madagascar to hitch us in prayerful remembrance, giving thanks for the life and teachings of Pope Francis. Could his soul relaxation in peace, and will his enduring message information us as we try to construct a extra simply and loving world.
Within the hope of the Risen Christ,
+ Cardinal Ambongo
Archbishop of Kinshasa
President of SECAM
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM).
