The Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM) and the Council of European Bishops’ Conferences (CCEE) are set to hold their seventh joint seminar from January 23 to 26, 2024, at the Mariapolis Retreat Centre, Nairobi, Kenya.

The SECAM secretary general, Rafael Simbine, made this known in a statement on Sunday in Ibadan.

Mr Simbine said the seminar, with the theme, “Synodality: Africa and Europe Walking Together”, marks a continued commitment to fostering deeper communion and solidarity between the churches in Africa and Europe.

According to him, since the seminar’s inception in 2004, the collaboration has become a vital platform for dialogue and mutual understanding.

Mr Simbine said the seminar, initially scheduled for 2021 but not held due to the COVID-19 pandemic, will feature 20 bishops, ten from each continent, alongside eight facilitators and assistants.

“It begins on Tuesday, January 23, with the arrival of delegates, followed by a packed agenda, including masses, prayer sessions, and in-depth discussions.

“Key highlights of the programme include presentations and dialogues on understanding the emerging synodal church in the light of ‘praedicate evangelium’.

“It also includes insights into the continental impressions of the first session of the Synod on Synodality held in Rome in October 2023,” he said.

Mr Simbine said a special focus would be on listening to the voices of young people in both continents and recognising their crucial role in shaping the church’s future.

The secretary-general noted that the seminar would culminate in a final statement on January 25, followed by a closing mass and dinner at Christ the King Parish.

“The seminar stands as a testament to the power of dialogue and collaboration across continents, seeking to

understand and address the unique challenges and opportunities presented in both contexts.

“As the world faces unprecedented changes and challenges, the church’s role in promoting justice, peace, and solidarity becomes ever more crucial.

“This seminar provides a platform for shared learning and cooperative action between these two vital limbs of the universal church,” Mr Simbine stated. 

(NAN)