The Apostolic Nuncio to Ghana, His Excellency Julian Kabore, has called on members of the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM) to stay faithful to their core mission of communion and service to the poor.
Speaking at the opening of a February 14 seminar themed, “Knowing and Owning SECAM,” for newly appointed bishops from across Africa aimed at equipping bishops with the tools and knowledge to strengthen the Church’s mission and unity across the African continent in Accra, the Nuncio emphasized the importance of SECAM maintaining its identity as a symbol of communion and service.
“SECAM was founded with a mission to serve the local churches of Africa, offering a unified response to the contemporary challenges facing our continent and our Church. It empowers the Church to speak with a single voice, standing as a universal sacrament of salvation, reconciliation, justice, and peace, as was emphasized during the Second Special Assembly for Africa of the Synod of Bishops in 2009. To fulfill this noble mission, SECAM must remain faithful to its identity as a symbol of communion and service to the poor,” he said.
Reflecting on the unique position of the African Church, he underscored that SECAM has been instrumental in providing a unified response to the continent’s challenges, fostering a collective voice for the Church in Africa.
The Nuncio further pointed out that SECAM’s mission is deeply rooted in the ideals of salvation, reconciliation, justice, and peace—values highlighted during the Second Special Assembly for Africa of the Synod of Bishops in 2009.
Highlighting the need for solidarity among the bishops, His Excellency Kabore urged them to strengthen their bonds with the Holy See and to collaborate more closely with Apostolic Nunciatures. He expressed gratitude for the support of the Church’s representatives and encouraged continued dialogue, noting that “It is equally crucial that pastors continue to strengthen their bonds of fraternal communion with the Successor of Peter.”
He also drew attention to the need for the Church to maintain simplicity and accessibility in its structures. Quoting Pope Francis’ 2019 address to SECAM members, he reminded the bishops that, “Experience teaches that large bureaucratic structures tend to approach problems in the abstract, thereby risking a distancing of the Church from its people. Therefore, it is vital to remain concrete and in touch with reality.”
Watch His Excellency Julian Kabore’s address below
