Exploring the prophetic role of Catholic priests in the face of intolerance and ethnic-religious instrumentalization in sub-Saharan Africa, 38 delegates of West African diocesan priests gathered in Bissau from 5 to 10 June.
By: Stanislas Kambashi, SJ and Xavérine Mukansinga – Vatican City.
The West African Diocesan Priests, representing several West African countries, convened for their tenth annual conference in Guinea Bissau. In an interview with Vatican News, Father Aloyse Sene, the President of the Conference, shed light on the objectives of the gathering, which include bolstering priestly fraternity and exchanging experiences.
Sharing Realities of African Diocesan Priests
The West African Priests’ Conference, known as URPAO in French, gathers annually to foster fraternity, collaboration, and solidarity in diocesan priestly ministry. Discussions are centered around an inspiring theme that sparks conversations on current global challenges, particularly in the West African sub-region.
“We are sharing our experiences from our parishes, diocesan structures, and countries,” said Father Aloyse Sene, a priest from the Diocese of Kaolack in Senegal, where he teaches Canon Law.
Enriching Encounters
The conference’s primary goal is to fortify fraternity, solidarity, and exchange experiences of mutual interest. According to the President of URPAO, this synergy could potentially involve the exchange of personnel to address shortages in vocations in different countries.
Furthermore, Father Sene highlighted the importance of collaboration between countries, especially in the realm of formation. He emphasized the value of priests being willing to serve in different countries, underscoring the need for a more open approach to pastoral service.
Priests Combating Ethnic Intolerance
Under the umbrella of their 10th conference theme, “The prophetic role of the Catholic Priest in the face of intolerance and ethnic-religious instrumentalization in sub-Saharan Africa,” the URPAO President emphasized the timeliness and significance of the chosen topic.
For the organizers, this theme was selected due to the prevalent issue of intolerance in various sub-Saharan African countries, often linked to ethnicity, religion, or political manipulation during electoral periods.
Hopes for the Future
The delegates at the conference hailed from every West African country, with each nation sending one diocesan priest as their representative. The President of URPAO expressed optimism for future conferences, aiming for increased participation and the inclusion of Mauritania, a country that has yet to partake in these gatherings.
