Rocca di Papa, 20 May 2025

On the third day of the 22nd General Assembly of the Society of African Missions (SMA), delegates turned their attention to a vital theme: evangelization in, with, and from Africa. The day offered rich insight into Africa’s dual role as both a mission field and a missionary force, and concluded with a key procedural milestone: the Assembly formally approved the working handbook that will guide deliberations, clearing the way for the General Council’s presentation the following day.

Today’s weather in Rocca di Papa was noticeably chilly, prompting many participants to don warm clothing. Despite intermittent rain, some delegates took the opportunity to step outside and enjoy a walk, undeterred by the weather.

The morning opened with a meditation on Fratelli Tutti (no. 70), centered on the parable of the Good Samaritan. The reflection encouraged participants to embody the Samaritan’s compassion by drawing near to the wounded of today’s world—whether victims of poverty, conflict, or neglect—and to reflect on the Church’s mission as one of mercy and closeness.

A diverse panel followed, highlighting the richness and complexity of evangelization across Africa. Speakers working in Central Africa, East Africa, and Liberia identified both opportunities and pressing challenges. In regions like the DRC, Cameroon, and the Central African Republic, the Church benefits from a youthful population, religious freedom, and a strong presence in education and healthcare. Yet it also faces political instability, clerical shortages, and increasing religious competition.

In Liberia, where Catholics are a small minority, the Church continues its essential work in interfaith dialogue and post-war reconciliation. In East Africa, the vibrancy of Small Christian Communities strengthens grassroots faith, though ethnic tensions and Islamist extremism remain concerns.

Despite these diverse contexts, panelists pointed to common obstacles: limited resources, cultural complexity, syncretism, and the growing impact of climate change. A particularly sobering insight came from Ghana, where the Catholic population has dropped from 15% in 2000 to 10% today—a decline attributed to the Church’s perceived distance from people’s everyday realities.

In the afternoon, focus shifted to mission from Africa to the world. Four missionaries shared experiences from Europe and North America, where African SMA priests now serve parishes shaped by migration, multiculturalism, and secularization. In France, over 7,000 adult baptisms were recorded this Easter. In the UK and Spain, SMA missionaries engage with both diaspora communities and broader parish networks, often within ecumenical frameworks. However, challenges remain—particularly around cultural adaptation, safeguarding norms, and diminished religious participation in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

During discussions, questions arose about whether the expression “mission from Africa” might be perceived as exclusive. Delegates clarified that all SMA members, regardless of nationality, are shaped by their African experience—whether through birth, formation, or missionary service. Thus, Africa is not only a source of mission but also a shared horizon for the Society’s global identity.

Working groups met to outline pathways for deeper missionary conversion. Their proposals included: shifting from a sacrament-heavy model to one of pastoral closeness; engaging African Traditional Religions and Islam with respect; encouraging liturgical inculturation; strengthening youth formation and lay leadership; and addressing systemic injustices linked to poverty, corruption, and ecological crisis. Delegates also highlighted the importance of collaboration with diaspora communities in renewing the universal Church.

The day concluded with a Eucharistic celebration in memory of Brother Lucien Mathieu, whose humble and faithful missionary life was honored as a living example of the mission under discussion—rooted in humility, animated by faith, and wholly devoted to others.

With the Assembly’s working handbook now approved, the foundation is set for the General Council’s report and the intensive work that lies ahead. Day 3 reaffirmed a central truth: Africa’s role in the Church is not just emerging—it is essential. From local villages to global capitals, Africa is evangelizing, energizing, and calling the Church to a deeper, more inclusive mission.

By Dominic Wabwireh