The Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM) has expressed deep sympathy and solidarity with the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) following the devastating wildfires that have swept across parts of California, particularly the Los Angeles area, since early January 2025.
In a heartfelt message, Archbishop Fridolin Ambongo, President of SECAM and Archbishop of Kinshasa, conveyed the collective concern of Africa’s bishops, clergy, and faithful for those affected by the fires. The fires, which have claimed at least 24 lives and caused significant damage, are believed to have been exacerbated by the region’s drought conditions and powerful offshore winds.
“On behalf of the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM), I am sending you my deepest sympathy and solidarity for the fire that engulfs and ravages parts of California,” Archbishop Ambongo wrote in his message to Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio, President of the USCCB.
The Archbishop highlighted the emotional and material toll of the disaster, emphasising the deep concern within the African Church. “The Bishops of Africa and its Islands, the clergy, the consecrated men and women, and the whole faithful of the Catholic Church in Africa are very concerned about this unfortunate situation,” he stated.
The message also extended gratitude to the firefighters and emergency responders risking their lives to combat the fires, save victims, and prevent further devastation. Archbishop Ambongo urged continued prayers for the swift end of the disaster and for divine strength to support those working on the frontlines.
“As we journey through the 2025 Jubilee Year as ‘Pilgrims of Hope,’ let us believe and pray for a swift end to this disaster. We assure you of our prayers in community that Jesus may sustain any action to stop this catastrophe,” he added, acknowledging the link between the fires and broader environmental concerns.
The Archbishop also called for greater global action on climate change, echoing Pope Francis’ call in his encyclical Laudato Si’ to care for the environment and strive for sustainable development. “Let us also pray that everyone take more actions to care for our Common Home,” he said, highlighting the urgent need for collective responsibility in tackling environmental challenges.
The solidarity message from SECAM serves as a powerful reminder of the global reach and shared compassion within the Catholic Church, especially as natural disasters continue to highlight the pressing issues of climate change and environmental degradation.