MAPUTO, MAY 29, 2015(CISA) – The Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM) and the Council of the Bishops’ Conferences of Europe (CCEE) are currently holding a seminar to deliberate on issues relating to the family on the two continents.
“In the light of Pope Francis’ Apostolic Exhortation and in continuity with the reflections which will be tackled in the course of the next Ordinary Assembly of the Synod of Bishops in October 2015 on the Family, the bishops will deliberate on issues relating to the family on the two continents,” read a joint statement in part sent to CISA by the Communications Offices of CCEE and SECAM May 26.
The seminar which begun on May 28- 31, 2015 in Maputo Mozambique on the theme: The joy of the Family is expected to strength communion, collaboration and reflection on major challenges facing the Church.
According to the statement the seminar is meant to study the family in Africa and Europe as protagonist of evangelisation and at the same time in need of being evangelised.
Some of the topics being covered include Anthropological, social and ecclesial challenges for the Family, The Joy and sufferings of the Family: Pastoral challenges, The Mission of the Bishop in proclaiming the Gospel of the Family and the role of the Church and the Bishop in dialogue with Society and States in family matters.
The bishops are expected to issue a final message on their deliberations at the end of the Seminar.
The Seminar is being hosted by Bishop Lucio Muandula, President of the Bishops’ Conference of Mozambique and presided over by Archbishop Gabriel Mbilingi of Angola, Presidents of SECAM and a representative of Cardinal Peter Erdő of Hungary, President of the CCEE.
