Celebrating SECAM Day: 55 Years of Evangelizing Africa
As African bishops come together to celebrate SECAM Day, marking the fifty-fifth anniversary of its foundation, Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo, the president of SECAM, reflects on the immense progress made by the Church in Africa in evangelizing the continent. He emphasizes the synodal aspect of the Church’s mission in Africa and around the world.
On July 29th, 1969, the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM) was officially established by African Bishops to foster communion and collaboration in the mission of spreading the Gospel across the continent and its islands.
Following this historic event, Pope St. Paul VI presided over the closing ceremony of the first SECAM meeting in Kampala on July 31st, during his Apostolic Journey to Uganda from July 31st to August 2nd, 1969, marking the first-ever visit of a pontiff to Africa.
Every year, on the closest Sunday to the anniversary, SECAM Day is observed, with this year’s celebration falling on July 28th.
“You Africans are Missionaries to Yourselves”
This year, the 55th edition is themed around Pope Paul VI’s memorable words from the inauguration ceremony on July 31st: “You Africans are Missionaries to Yourselves”.
In his message for the occasion, Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo highlights the significance of this year’s celebration, coinciding with the 60th anniversary of the canonization of the Martyrs of Uganda.
He acknowledges the growth of the Church in Africa since that historic visit and emphasizes the role of the Church as a champion of human development and the voice of the voiceless.
A Vibrant “Adult” Church
The Church in Africa, with 256 million believers today, representing 18% of the African population, has seen significant progress, with a growing number of indigenous clergy and an expanding presence in international missionary societies.
Cardinal Ambongo underscores the importance of inculturation in effectively spreading the Christian faith in Africa and addressing the continent’s ongoing struggles.
Bringing Hope to a Troubled Continent
Despite the challenges Africa faces, including poverty, conflicts, migration, and corruption, Christians are called to be agents of peace and reconciliation, radiating the love of Christ in every aspect of society.
As the Church in Africa continues to grow and evolve, Cardinal Ambongo stresses the importance of the synodal dimension in its missionary efforts, urging all members to actively participate in the Church’s mission.
SECAM’s President invites Catholics across Africa to use this annual celebration to raise awareness about the organization and its mission, encouraging everyone to get involved in spreading the Good News.
