Exercices Spirituels pour le Pape et la Curie Romaine

Le Pape et les membres de la Curie Romaine ont débuté depuis le dimanche 06 mars 2016 les Exercices Spirituels de Carême à la Casa Divin Maestro d’Aricia, non loin de Rome. Ces Exercices Spirituels, qui prendront fin le vendredi 11 mars 2016, ont pour fil conducteur dix questions tirées de l’Evangile. Les méditations sont proposées par le Père Ermes Ronchi, de l’œuvre des serviteurs de Marie. Pendant cette semaine où le Pape est en Retraite, toutes les audiences sont suspendues.

La proposition pour ces jours, a indiqué le Père Ronchi, est de s’arrêter dans l’écoute d’un Dieu qui interroge : il ne s’agit pas d’interroger le Seigneur, mais plutôt de se laisser interroger par Lui. Sans se précipiter pour chercher une réponse, il s’agit de s’arrêter pour bien vivre la question, car aimer les questions sont déjà une révélation. Les questions sont l’autre nom de la conversion a encore indiqué le Père Ronchi.

Les quatre Evangiles nous rapportent 220 questions de Jésus, et les questions sont le moyen par lequel Jésus éduque, a déclaré le Père Ronchi. Jésus lui-même est une question. Sa vie et sa mort nous interpellent sur le sens ultime des choses, nous interrogent sur ce qui rend joyeuse la vie. Et la réponse, c’est encore Lui, a affirmé le Père Ronchi.

KAMBASHI Stanislas,SJ,                            Radio Vatican/Français-Afrique

VATICANO. Decorrem em Ariccia os Exercícios espirituais do Papa Francisco e a Cúria Romana

Começaram na tarde de domingo dia 6 de março na Casa do Divino Mestre na cidade de Ariccia, os Exercícios Espirituais para o Papa e Curia Romana nesta Quaresma de 2016.

A guiar as meditações, o padre Ermes Ronchi, sacerdote italiano da Ordem dos Servos de Maria. Participam neste retiro cerca de sessenta membros da Cúria Romana.

Tema central dos Exercícios Espirituais “As perguntas abertas do Evangelho”. Uma primeira pergunta foi extraída do Evangelho de S. João “Jesus vol­tou-se para trás e, vendo que eles o seguiam, perguntou-lhes: “Que procurais?”  (Jo, 1, 38).

Deixarmo-nos interrogar pelo Senhor – esta a ideia principal proposta pelo padre Ronchi no início do retiro da Quaresma para o Papa e os membros da Curia Romana. Educar a fé através de questões mais do que através de afirmações. São as perguntas abertas do Evangelho.

O padre Ronchi recordou ainda que Jesus não nos pede renúncias ou sacrifícios, mas pede em primeiro lugar para entrar no nosso coração.

A fé é buscar um Deus cujo nome é alegria, liberdade e plenitude que deve ser anunciado como belo, desejável e interessante. O padre Ronchi afirmou, entretanto, que Deus pode morrer de tédio nas nossas igrejas. É preciso restituir a sua face solar – observou – um Deus que deve ser saboreado. Um Deus desejável que faz feliz o coração.

Rui SARAIVA,                                 Rádio Vaticano, Redação Portuguesa 

Pope Francis on a Retreat

The priest leading the retreat or spiritual exercises for Pope Francis and the Roman Curia says the Church must not shine the spotlight on herself but instead on Christ. Father Ermes Ronchi’s reflections came during his meditations on Tuesday morning that were delivered at the ‘Divin Maestro’ centre in the town of Ariccia, south of Rome, where the Pope and the Roman Curia are spending their Lenten retreat.

The inspiration for Tuesday morning’s reflections by Father Ronchi came from the gospel account of where Peter professes his faith in Christ as the Son of God. Noting that this was preceded by Jesus asking the disciples who they thought He was, Father Ronchi said in this way Christ is not giving lessons or suggesting replies based on what other people say about him but instead is urging his apostles  to look inside their own hearts. Jesus wants to know if his disciples have opened their hearts to God who is living inside them. Our hearts, explained Father Ronchi, “can be the cradle or the tomb of God.”

He went on to say that Jesus also warned his apostles that following him means an appointment with a man on the Cross. Christ spills his own blood not that of anybody else and he doesn’t sacrifice other people, just himself.

Turning to the Church’s role, Father Ronchi said we are “the mediators between God and humanity.”  Like John the Baptist, we must prepare the path and then step to one side. He said “think of the beauty of a church that does not shine the spotlight on herself” but instead on Christ, and warned that we still have some progress to make on this point.  

Vatican Radio

VATICANO. Papa recebeu o Primeiro Ministro de Timor Leste

O Papa Francisco recebeu esta manhã em audiência, no Palácio Apostólico, o Primeiro Ministro da República Democrática de Timor Leste, Rui Maria de Araújo.

Sucessivamente o dirigente timorense encontrou-se com o Cardeal Secretário de Estado, Pietro Parolin, acompanho pelo Subsecretário para as Relações com os Estados, D. Antoine Camilleri.

Nos colóquios que decorreram de forma cordial – informa um comunicado da Sala de Imprensa da Santa Sé - foram evocadas as boas relações entre a Santa Sé e Timor Leste, assim como também o contributo histórico da Igreja na edificação daquela Nação e a colaboração existente entre as Autoridades civis em vários domínios sociais tais como a educação, a saúde, a luta contra a pobreza.

No final do encontro com o Secretário de Estado, teve lugar, na Sala dos Tratados do Palácio Apostólico, a troca dos instrumentos de ratificação do Acordo entre a Santa Sé e a República Democrática de Timor Leste, assinado em Díli a 14 de Agosto de 2015. O Acordo, composto de um Preâmbulo e 26 artigos, estabelece o reconhecimento da personalidade jurídica da Igreja e das suas Instituições e garante à Igreja a liberdade de desempenhar a própria missão a favor da população timorense.

Dulce ARAÚJO,                               Rádio Vaticano, Redação Portuguesa 

Pope says slain nuns are modern-day martyrs

Pope Francis says that the four nuns who were killed in Yemen are modern-day martyrs and victims of indifference.

During his address to the faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square after the Angelus prayer, the Pope prayed for the slain nuns who belonged to Mother Teresa’s “Missionaries of Charity” and who were serving in a home for the elderly which was attacked on Friday by gunmen in the city of Aden.

Expressing his closeness to the religious Order, he said the nuns “gave their blood for the Church”' and that they were not only victims of the attackers but also of “this indifference of globalization.”

The nuns were among 16 people killed during an attack by terrorists who stormed the retirement home.

Pope Francis also praised an ecumenical project to fly refugees to Europe as “a concrete sign of commitment for peace and life.”

He described the “pilot” project as a reality that unites solidarity with security allowing the safe transfer of people who are fleeing war and violence, such as the “one hundred refugees who have already arrived in Italy and amongst whom there are minors, sick people, disabled people, war widows with children and elderly people”.

The group that arrived in Rome last month represents the first wave of the planned transfer of 1,000 particularly vulnerable refugees from camps in Lebanon, Morocco and Ethiopia.

Pope Francis said he is particularly happy the initiative is an ecumenical one that sees the support of the Community of Saint Egidio, the Federation of Italian Evangelical Churches, the Waldensian and the Methodist Churches. 

Meanwhile, during his catechesis Pope Francis reflected on the parable of the prodigal son saying that God gives us the freedom to make mistakes, but he always welcomes us back to the fold with open arms.

Jesus, he said, teaches us to be merciful just as the Father is, and he warned against pride and arrogance that can derive from feelings of righteousness. That kind of attitude, he said, is evil. The Lord welcomes those who recognize their sinfulness.

The Pope concluded his catechesis saying that God loves us immeasurably and comes towards us with tenderness when we approach Him after having wandered.

“He welcomes us, Pope Francis concluded, and restores our dignity as God’s children.”

Vatican Radio

Pope Francis meets Pontifical Academy for Life

Pope Francis has told participants of the Pontifical Academy for Life that Virtue is the best that the heart of man offers. 

“Virtue is not just a habit, but it is the constantly renewable ability to choose good. Virtue is not an emotion, is not a skill that is acquired through a refresher course, let alone a biochemical mechanism, it is the highest expression of human freedom. Virtue is the best that the heart of man offers,” the Holy Father speaking in Italian told participants who went to see him at the Sala Clementina (Clementine Hall) of the Apostolic Palace.

In Africa, Burkina Faso, Egypt and the Democratic Republic of Congo are members of the Pontifical Academy for Life. 

The Academy is holding its general assembly in the Vatican from 3 to 5 March under the theme, "Virtues in the Ethics of Life." 

Established in 1994, the Pontifical Academy studies issues connected with the promotion and the defense of human life from an interdisciplinary perspective.  Among other activities, the Academy aims at fostering a culture of life. 

The academy categories Pro-life as applying to those members whose principal activity is pastoral or social assistance, or who are active in Pro-life organisations nationally or internationally.

In general, members of the academy have expertise in different fields of biomedical sciences and related disciplines.

(Email: engafrica@vatiradio.va)

Diocese of Mamfe visits Focolare movement in Rome

A delegation of 40 persons, led by the Bishop of Mamfe in Cameroon, Andrew Nkea Fuanya together with the Bishop Emeritus of the same diocese, Francis Teke Lysinge, Tuesday, visited the International Centre of the Focolare Movement in Rocca di Papa, Rome. President of the Focolare Movement, Maria Voce and the general council of the movement were on standby to welcome the delegates. This is according to a statement made available to the Africa Service of Vatican Radio by the Focolare Movement.

The Diocese of Mamfe is undertaking the visit as a "pilgrimage," to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Chiara Lubich's first visit to the village of Fontem in Cameroon. The Cameroonian delegation also wanted to pray at the grave of Chiara Lubich. The delegation’s visit was a tangible expression of gratitude for the contribution of the Focolare Movement to Cameroon and Africa as a whole.

"Fifty years ago Chiara Lubich came to plant a seed in Fontem, a gift for all in Africa. Fifty years later Mamfe has come to plant a seed of gratitude," said Bishop Nkea in his address. "From this moment begins the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the presence of the spirit of the Focolare Movement in Fontem, a city on the mountain."  The Bishop Emeritus of Mamfe, Francis Teke Lysinge added that, "from the fruits we see the root."

Speaking shortly after, President of the Focolare Movement, Maria Voce told the delegation that their presence at the International Centre had brought great joy to the movement and was indeed testimony of the spirit of unity and fraternity present in Africa.

Chiara Lubich, born on 22 January 1920 was an Italian Catholic founder of the Focolare Movement. She died on 14 March 2008.

(Email: engafrica@vatiradio.va)

Actes Pontificaux/ Pontificals Acts

Le Saint Père a nommé Administrateur Apostolique sede plena et ad nutum Sanctae Sedis de l’Archidiocèse de Mbandaka-Bikoro en République démocratique du Congo, Monseigneur Fridolin Ambongo, qui est évêque de Bokungu-Ikela, dans le même pays.

Avis pour les radios catholiques africaines et les auditeurs de Radio Vatican/ Notice to Catholic Radio Stations in Africa and listeners of Vatican Ra

Radio Vatican avait produit en 2011 un album musical, Afrika tenda amani (fais la paix, Afrique), avec le concours de quelques artistes musiciens africains dont Papa Wemba de la République démocratique du Congo et Bonga d’Angola. Cet album qui accompagne l’exhortation post-synodale Africae munus, reflète les thèmes de la Deuxième assemblée spéciale pour l’Afrique du Synode des Évêques (réconciliation, justice et paix), a été expédié à toutes les radios catholiques africaines par le canal des Pères Evêques diocésains auxquels Radio Vatican a fait parvenir 3 copies.

Si jamais une radio n’a pas encore reçu une copie de cet album, elle peut nous écrire (africa@vatiradio.va) nous en demander. De même, nous disposons de quelques exemplaires pour nos auditeurs qui en feront la demande. Mais la quantité est fort limitée.

P. Jean-Pierre Bodjoko, SJ

Responsable du Bureau de Promotion de Radio Vatican pour la zone Afrique

E-mail : africa@vatiradio.va

***

In 2011, Vatican Radio produced a music album titled Afrika tenda amani (Make Peace, Africa), with the help of a few African musicians including Papa Wemba of the Democratic Republic of Congo and Bonga from Angola. Three copies of the CD album, which accompanied the publication of the post-synodal exhortation Africae munus  and reflects on the themes of the Second Special Assembly for Africa of the Synod of Bishops (reconciliation, justice and peace) was sent to all  Catholic radio stations in Africa through the local bishops.

If your radio station has not yet received a copy of this album, please write to africa@vatiradio.va to request a copy. Also, we have a limited number of copies for our listeners who may also send their requests to the above email address.

Fr. Jean-Pierre Bodjoko, SJ

Head of the Promotions Office for Africa

Vatican Radio

***

A Rádio Vaticano tinha produzido em 2011 um álbum musical denominado Afrika Tenda Amani (faz a paz, África), com a participação de alguns artistas músicos africanos, dentre os quais Papa Wemba da República Democrática do Congo e Bonga de Angola. Este álbum, que acompanha a Exortação pós-sinodal Africae Munus reflecte os temas da Segunda Assembleia Especial para a África do Sínodo dos Bispos (reconciliação, justiça e paz), e foi enviado a todas as Rádios Católicas africanas através dos Senhores Bispos Diocesanos aos quais a Rádio Vaticano fez chegar três cópias.

Se por acaso alguma Rádio ainda não recebeu uma cópia deste álbum, podem nos escrever (africa@vatiradio.va) para solicitá-lo. Da mesma forma, também dispomos de alguns exemplares para os nossos ouvintes que o solicitem. Mas a quantidade é muito limitada.

P. Jean-Pierre Bodjoko, SJ

Responsável do Departamento de Promoção da Rádio Vaticano, para a região África

E-mail: africa@vatiradio.va

PROGRAMME FRANÇAIS-AFRIQUE : SUIVEZ-NOUS SUR FACEBOOK

En plus de notre site internet, vous pouvez aussi suivre de nos nouvelles sur Facebook à l’adresse : Radio Vatican Français-Afrique. Cliquez sur "j'aime" pour interagir.

Nos fréquences en KHz sur les Ondes courtes (Heure en Temps universel)/ Our frequencies in KHZ on Short Waves (Universal Time)/As nossas frequências e

Anglais-Afrique/ English-Africa/Inglês-África :

3 :00 : 9660 - 11625

5 :00 : 7360 – 13765

6 :30 : 11625 – 13765

17 :30 : 11625 – 13765 - 15570

20 :00 : 13765 – 15570

[Rome: FM: 103.80]

Français-Afrique/French-Africa/Francês-África :

2:30 :  7360 - 9660

4 :30 : 7360 – 13765

6 :00 : 11625 – 13765

17 :00 : 13765 - 15570

20 :30 : 13765 – 15570

[Rome: FM: 103.80]

Portugais-Afrique/ Portuguese-Africa/Português-África :

5 :30 : 7360 – 11625 – 13765

18 :00 : 11625 – 13765 - 15570

[Rome: FM: 103.80]

Kiswahili :

3 :30 : 7360 – 9660

7 :30 : 9660 - 11625

16 :00 : 13765 – 15570

[Rome: FM: 103.80]

NB:

Partout dans le monde, on peut suivre nos programmes à travers notre site internet www.radiovaticana.va.  De même, on peut suivre en direct les images des événements, des cérémonies du Pape sur notre Player video live dont le lien se trouve sur notre site internet.

***

Please note that you can follow our programmes at all times, day and night the world over. Just go to www.radiovaticana.va. Also you can follow a live video coverage of Papal events by clicking on the video player on the website.

***

Em todo o mundo é possível seguir os nossos programas através do nosso sito internet www.radiovaticana.va Do mesmo modo, se podem também seguir in directo as imagens dos acontecimentos e cerimónias do Papa  no nosso Player vídeo ao vivo, cujo link também se encontra no nosso sito internet.

Adresse utile pour Radio Vatican/Useful contact of Vatican Radio/Endereço

P. Jean-Pierre BODJOKO, SJ

Responsable Bureau de Promotion-Afrique/Head of Africa’s Promotion Office/ Responsável

Sector de promoção-Afrique

e-mail: africa@vatiradio.va

Tel : +39.06.698.83366

ÁFRICA. Secretários-Gerais nacionais e regionais reúnem-se em Acra, Gana

Os Secretários-Gerais das Conferências Episcopais Regionais e Nacionais em África tiveram um encontro em Acra, Gana, de 29 fevereiro a 4 de março últimos. No seu discurso de boas-vindas, o Núncio Apostólico em Gana, D. Jean-Marie Speich, ressaltou a necessidade de os sacerdotes e outros agentes pastorais aderirem ao ensinamento da Igreja em todas as esferas das suas actividades.

D. Speich pediu ainda aos Secretários-Gerais para  estarem atentos à mensagem de Cristo e permanecerem próximos à Igreja, tendo também acrescentado que devem "partilhar uns com os outros as suas experiências no espírito do amor e no interesse do bem da Igreja, sem se concentrar cada qual apenas nos seus interesses nacionais".

“O Santo Padre - destacou ainda o Núncio - está muito interessado na Igreja em África e, por esta razão, também nas actividades do Simpósio das Conferências Episcopais da África e Madagáscar (SECAM). E por isso D. Speich exortou os Secretários-Gerais a colaborarem com as Nunciaturas Apostólicas nos diferentes países do Continente africano.

Por sua vez, o Arcebispo de Acra, Dom Charles G. Palmer-Buckle, saudou os participantes em nome da Conferência dos Bispos Católicos do Gana (GCBC). Em seguida recordou-lhes o seu papel como Secretários-gerais das Conferências Episcopais, papel que ele comparou ao dos ‘co-pilotos’ que devem apoiar os seus bispos na gestão dos assuntos da Igreja a nível nacional, regional e continental, em África.

"Vós tendes tarefas desafiadoras, mas o Bom Deus vos dará a graça e a força no vosso serviço em levar a Igreja que está em África ao ponto onde Deus quer esteja, em união com a Igreja Universal" – reiterou D. Palmer-Buckle aos Secretários-Gerais, exortando-os a serem discretos e humildes no desempenho das suas funções.

O Arcebispo Buckle, que também é o Tesoureiro do SECAM, aproveitou a oportunidade para apelar aos Secretários-Gerais a consciencializarem os seus Bispos para pagarem as suas quotizações ao SECAM e permitir deste modo ao Simpósio de prestar um serviço eficiente e efectivo à Igreja em África. E recordou-lhes ainda uma decisão tomada pela Assembleia Plenária do SECAM para uma colecta a ser feita em toda a África durante o Ano Continental da Reconciliação, que decorre de 29 de julho de 2015 a 29 de julho de 2016

Em relação à Agência Católica de Notícias para a África, o Arcebispo Palmer-Buckle explicou que é um projecto iniciado pelo SECAM para servir como plataforma onde  Igreja em África pode contar a sua própria história. E pediu, por isso, aos participantes para ajudarem  a encontrar  benfeitores para este projecto.

SECAM, para a Rádio Vaticano

Bishops in South Africa call for candid conversation on racism

Catholic Bishops in Southern Africa are inviting the faithful in South Africa to acknowledge the outburst of racial issues in their country, including within the Church, and to reflect in prayer on ways of overcoming the vice.

“In humility, as St. Peter confessed, we your pastors prostrate before God and before all who are in pain, ask for forgiveness for our historic complicity with racism in the Church,” the Bishops state.

In a letter signed by the President of Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference (SACBC) Archbishop Stephen Brislin, the Bishops call for “a candid conversation on racism and its manifestations in order to adequately and seriously address racism and racial divisions in our country.”

The Bishops say they realise the sensitivity of discussing issues around racism and highlight reactions from self-justification to self-righteous feelings; from “guilt and denial” on one hand; to, “on the other hand, feelings of anger and sadness.”

“Dialogue, rational and respectful, is necessary so that we open ourselves to receive God’s healing,” the Bishops say, invoking the Holy Spirit as guide.

“Our invitation to become part of this dialogue comes from a realisation that the Holy Spirit calls us as a country to be healed; to build and develop relationships of equality, dignity and mutual respect,” the bishops say in their pastoral letter available below and which can be downloaded from their website.

Bishops in Southern Africa Call for “a candid conversation on racism,” Ask Forgiveness for Racism in Church even within the Church in the context of the Jubilee Year of Mercy and state, “This will mean acknowledging the presence of racism in the Church before and during the apartheid era and in these years of democracy.”

Below is the full text of the Bishops’ Pastoral Letter on Racism in South Africa.

Fr.  Don Bosco Onyalla,                                CANAA in Nairobi

Pastoral letter: southern african catholic bishops’ conference:  "a call to overcome racism"

“The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour.” (Luke 4:18-19)

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

We need to have a candid conversation on racism and its manifestations in order to adequately and seriously address racism and racial divisions in our country.

We realise that this is not an easy conversation, one that many of us may prefer to avoid. Our invitation to such a dialogue may in itself evoke a range of emotions, including self-justification and self-righteous feelings; or, guilt and denial; on the other hand, feelings of anger and sadness. Dialogue, rational and respectful, is necessary so that we open ourselves to receive God’s healing.

The belief that race accounts for differences in human character or ability and that a particular race is superior to others was something which St. Peter and the early Church overcame through the guidance of the Holy Spirit. “Truly I now perceive that God shows no partiality, but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him.” (Acts 10:34-35)

Our invitation to become part of this dialogue comes from a realisation that the Holy Spirit calls us as a country to be healed; to build and develop relationships of equality, dignity and mutual respect.

In this third decade after gaining our democratic freedom and rights,

We need to address the issues of our social trauma as a country which result from the violence of centuries of colonialism and the violent decades of apartheid. We need to dialogue and work together to achieve healing as a nation.  
We need to acknowledge the link between race, power and privilege.  
We need to redress urgently the economic inequalities present in our society as a result of past racial discriminatory laws and practices; to allay unfounded fears and promotes justice.

Our responsibilities within the Church

In this Jubilee Year of Mercy, as Church in Southern Africa, we commit ourselves to a credible and comprehensive conversation on racism. This will mean acknowledging the presence of racism in the Church before and during the apartheid era and in these years of democracy. In humility, as St. Peter confessed, we your pastors prostrate before God and before all who are in pain, ask for forgiveness for our historic complicity with racism in the Church.

As we seek God’s mercy that comes with the Jubilee of Mercy, we challenge ourselves as your pastors and we call upon all the faithful and all people of goodwill to do all in our power to address the problem of racism in our society and in the Church. To this effect, our Conference will be adopting a process to be used in small group reflection in our dioceses and parishes engaging all in dealing with the issues of racism.

Furthermore, we encourage this open dialogue at the level of our parishes, availing parishioners of the opportunity to look at how people can grow in positive appreciation of cultural diversity and how this is expressed in the liturgy and other activities of the parish. Our experience of the Gospel call us to rejoice in diversity, to become more culturally inclusive and more enthusiastic in our appreciation of God’s gift of racial diversity. This leads us to appreciate that in our parishes, in our religious communities and in our dioceses, the glory of the body of Christ is enriched and mediated through the various rich cultural, social economic contributions that each race and all ethnic groups contribute from their basket of traditions and social identities.

Through our celebration of the Eucharist, the symbol of unity in the body of Christ, we ask the Lord to heal and transform the relationships in our dioceses and our parishes so that we become communities of faith where “there is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male and female.” (Galatians 3: 28).      

Personal responsibility of each

If we want our conversion to contribute to the building of a South Africa freed from racism, we must strive to lead lives worthy of the Gospel (cf. Phil. 1.27; Eph. 4.1), refrain from loving only people who are just like ourselves. In loving only those who share our racial and ethnic backgrounds, we fall short of fulfilling the demands of love which the Gospel calls for. The words of our Lord challenge us that if we greet only our brothers and sisters, "what more are you doing than others? Do not even the non-believers do the same?” (Matthew 5: 47)

While reaching out to one another, in open and honest dialogue, the sacrament of Reconciliation becomes especially important and meaningful because through it we come in our sinfulness to our all merciful Father for healing and forgiveness.

A call to prayer

The task of reconciliation therefore requires watchfulness and ardent prayer on the part of each. In this Jubilee Year of Mercy, we ask all parish priests and parishioners to commit themselves to a parish campaign to overcome racism, e.g. a parish prayer campaign or a family prayer, special days of prayer and fasting, co-operating with other parishes across racial lines and working with organisations promoting the dismantling of racism. We ask each parish to organise and commit themselves to do this.

May the Lord of Peace grant our nation the peace, the healing and the reconciliation that we seek. (cf. 2 Th. 3.16).

Archbishop Stephen Brislin, President of Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference

RD CONGO : Clôture de la quarante-sixième session de la Chaire Cardinal Malula

La quarante-sixième session de la Chaire Cardinal Malula organisée du 7 au 8 mars par l’Institut Africain des Sciences de la Mission des Missionnaires oblats de Marie Immaculée s’est clôturée le mardi 8 mars avec le mot prononcé par le supérieur provincial des Oblats, grand chancelier de l’Institut Africain des Sciences de la Mission, le père Abel Nsolo.

Deux femmes ont été les modératrices le mardi 8 mars, journée internationale de la femme : Sœur Josée Ngalula, religieuse de saint André, professeur à l’Institut Saint Eugène de Mazenod et Madame Bijoux Makuta, professeur à l’Université Protestante du Congo.

Les conférences du mardi 8 mars ont tourné autour de la transformation des conflits. Le professeur Richard Friedli de Fribourg Peace Forum de Suisse a présenté des outils d’analyse comme passerelle de la théorie à la pratique. Monsieur l’abbé Pascal Zetu, professeur à l’Institut Supérieur Pédagogique Catholique de Kinshasa, a exposé sur les ressources traditionnelles africaines de transformation des conflits. Entre les deux conférences, des communications et témoignages sont venus de la Commission Justice et Paix de la Conférence épiscopale nationale du Congo, de l’Organisation des Nations Unies pour l’éducation, la science et la culture (UNESCO) et du directeur général de l’Institut des Musées Nationaux, le professeur Joseph Ibongo.

De l’ensemble des travaux, conférences et débats, le recteur de l’Institut Saint Eugène de Mazaenod, le père Anaclet Dupar, retient simplement que le public aura reçu des outils pour résoudre des conflits et vivre en paix au niveau national et international, comme citoyens et chrétiens.

P. Jean Baptiste MALENGE KALUNZU,OMI,                            Kinshasa, pour Radio Vatican

ANGOLA. Bispo de N’dalatando defende colaboração no Ano Santo da Misericórdia

O bispo da diocese de N’Dalatando (Angola) Dom Almeida Kanda apelou aos alunos das escolas católicas da sua diocese, a colaborarem com os seus professores, no sentido de transformarem a escola num ambiente onde se aprende a perdoar e a praticar, incessantemente a misericórdia.

Falando na missa de abertura do ano lectivo 2016 nas escolas católicas, o prelado disse igualmente que todos os dias somos chamados a praticar a virtude da misericórdia. 

Os alunos falaram igualmente à nossa reportagem sobre as suas expectativas neste presente ano lectivo (2016) especial, já que se celebra o ano santo da misericórdia.

De Luanda para a Rádio Vaticano, Anastácio SASEMBELE 

BENIN : Retraite sacerdotale à Parakou

Le Centre pastoral Guy Riobé de l’archidiocèse de Parakou a accueilli du  22 au 27 février 2016 l’ordinaire du lieu, Mgr l’archevêque Pascal N’Koué et l’ensemble de ses prêtres pour la  retraite sacerdotale  de l’année de la miséricorde divine. Souhaitée et voulue par le prélat, cette retraite prêchée par les Pères espagnols José Luis Maqueda et Pablo Martinez de « l’Œuvre de l’Eglise » en mission au Bénin,  a eu pour ambition de replonger le clergé de Parakou dans le Seigneur pour bénéficier de ses grâces afin d’en dispenser largement au peuple de Dieu. Avec les prédicateurs, les prêtres ont  compris davantage qu’ils ont été appelés  « à devenir miroir de Dieu,  à refléter l’image de Dieu, à vivre la vie de Dieu en ayant les quatre attitudes sacerdotales du Christ : recevoir Dieu, répondre à Dieu, aller en mission pour remplir les hommes de la vie de Dieu et prendre les hommes, effacer leurs péchés et les présenter à Dieu ».  Ils ont par ailleurs été convaincus que « la Vierge Marie doit être associée à la vie sacerdotale du Prêtre et que par la récitation du rosaire, le prêtre doit certifier que Marie est le flambeau de sa vie ».

Guy DOSSOU-YOVO,                                Cotonou, pour Radio Vatican

ANGOLA. Bispos da CEAST reunidos em N’dalatando

O Primeiro Congresso Eucarístico Nacional a decorrer em Agosto próximo, na Arquidiocese do Huambo, é o tema que domina a primeira Plenária anual dos Bispos da Conferência Episcopal de Angola e São Tomé (CEAST), que teve inicio nesta quarta–feira (2), na cidade de Ndalatando, província do Kwanza Norte.

No seu discurso de abertura, o presidente da CEAST, Dom Filomeno do Nascimento Vieira Dias, destacou a importância da eucaristia na vida da igreja.

“O encontro dos bispos é sempre um momento importante para afirmação da comunhão” assim afirmou o bispo da diocese de São Tomé, Dom Manuel dos Santos,  que participa da Assembleia.

Os Bispos da CEAST têm ordinariamente duas plenárias anuais onde são analisados aspectos relacionados com a vida religiosa, social, política e económica do país.

De Luanda para a Rádio Vaticano, Anastácio SASEMBELE, paz e bem. 

Nuns who died in Yemen are martyrs says Rwandan Bishop

The nuns who were killed in an attack by gunmen in the war-torn Yemen port city of Aden last week will be remembered as martyrs, Bishop Smaragde Mbonyintege has said.

16 people, including four Catholic nuns, were killed last Friday when gunmen opened fire on an old people’s home.

Two of the deceased nuns were from Rwanda. Sr. Marguerite Mukashema, was from Kivumu Parish in Kabgayi Diocese while Sr. Reginette was from Janja Parish, Ruhengeri Diocese,

The two Rwandan nuns were killed with two other nuns from India and Kenya respectively as were 12 other persons. The old people’s home is run by the Missionaries of Charity, founded by Mother Teresa of Kolkata.

Bishop Smaragde Mbonyintege of the Diocese of Kabgayi told Rwanda’s The New Times that although the deaths of the nuns is a blow to the country and the Church, Rwanda is proud to have Rwandan nuns die as martyrs.

“We were informed of their deaths by the Apostolic Nuncio. We deeply regret their deaths but stay proud for their sacrifice that resulted in deaths. We consider them martyrs and they are,” he told The New Times of Rwanda on Monday.

Bishop Mbonyintege added that the deceased will not be brought to Rwanda but will be laid to rest in Yemen.

“Usually, when missionaries die, they are buried in countries where they have been serving. This means that they will be inhumed in Yemen. Although we are waiting for the decision of the congregation of sisters of charity to which they belonged, there is little chance of their bodies coming,” he said.

Bishop Mbonyintege said the Christian community in Rwanda will visit their families and organise a requiem Mass that will be held in Kivumu Parish, Kabgayi, on 13 March. The Bishop went on to explain that the Mass will be a time to recognise the mission accomplished by those nuns and to let other Christians know of their sacrifice.

“They have set a good example of selflessness, serving in such an unsafe country. That spirit compelled them to stay for the sake of others though they could have left,” Bishop Mbonyintege said

There are nine Rwandan religious sisters serving as Missionaries of Charity around the world, working as charity workers who care for orphans and the elderly.

 (By Steven Muvunyi, The New Times, Rwanda) 

BENIN : Session de formation des supérieurs majeurs religieux

Une trentaine de supérieurs religieux et leurs conseillers ont vécu du 21 au 26 février 2016 à l’ombre du sanctuaire marial dans le diocèse de Dassa-Zoumè, une session de formation sur le leadership. Organisée par Faith and Praxis, une organisation italienne se consacrant à l’accompagnement des leaders dans la vie consacrée, cette formation a pour objectif d’intégrer la foi et l’expérience afin d’aider les leaders à œuvrer pour la transformation effective des congrégations. Venus de seize instituts religieux présents au Bénin, au Togo et au Burkina Faso, ils ont réfléchi sur des pistes d’actions à entreprendre face à la question de l’auto prise en charge financière des instituts, du dialogue intergénérationnel et inter- congrégations  dans le respect des charismes et spécificités de chaque famille religieuse et également sur les réalités liées à l’exercice de l’autorité et du pouvoir. La rencontre leur a surtout permis « de prendre conscience tous ensemble des défis majeurs auxquels la vie consacrée est confrontée dans la sous-région ouest africaine en vue d’identifier le rôle qui leur revient en tant que leaders pour opérer des changements qui servent la finalité de leurs congrégations ».

Guy DOSSOU-YOVO,                                Cotonou, pour Radio Vatican

RDC. Padre Congolês abandona Paróquia na Alemanha por racismo e ameaças

Um sacerdote nascido na República Democrática do Congo vai deixar a Paróquia de Zorneding, na Baviera, por ter recebido ameaças de morte de motivação xenófoba. Ele fez o anúncio aos fiéis neste domingo, dia 6 de março, durante a missa.

O Padre Congolês Olivier Ndjimbi-Tshiende, que está na Alemanha desde 2005 e possui nacionalidade alemã, passou a ser hostilizado depois de se ter posicionado contra ofensas de políticos conservadores a refugiados no sul daquele país. O padre de 66 anos recebeu cinco ameaças de morte nos últimos meses. Segundo o jornal Süddeutsche Zeitung, entre aquelas contidas nas cartas recebidas pelo sacerdote, estava uma com as palavras "que te mandem para Auschwitz".

O posicionamento do sacerdote foi contra declarações xenófobas da então líder da União Social Cristã (CSU) na cidade, Sylvia Boher. O partido só existe na Baviera e é coirmão da União Democrata Cristã, da chanceler federal Angela Merkel. Numa publicação do partido, Sylvia Boher escreveu que a Baviera está a ser invadida por refugiados e qualificou os imigrantes provenientes da Eritreia como pessoas que só querem fugir do serviço militar.

O porta-voz do arcebispado de Munique e Freising, Bernhard Kellner, anunciou que o Padre Ndjimbi-Tshiende assumirá uma nova comunidade a partir de 1º de abril. "Lamentamos muito e estamos do lado dele", disse Kellner. A polícia está investigando as ameaças.

Bernardo SUATE,                             Rádio Vaticano, Redação Portuguesa

BENIN : 24 heures pour le Seigneur à Natitingou

Proposée par le Pape François en cette année de la miséricorde, l’expérience des 24 h pour le Seigneur a été vécue du vendredi 4 au samedi 5 mars 2016 par les filles et fils du diocèse de Natitingou au Bénin. Ouvert le vendredi 4mars matin  par la messe de 7h, ce temps de prière et d’adoration a été également clôturé le lendemain matin à la même heure par la messe sur toutes les paroisses du diocèse. Il a constitué en une exposition du Saint Sacrement pour l’adoration des fidèles à l’issue de la messe de 7h du vendredi matin, sous la direction des communautés et associations de prière réparties à tour de rôle, jusqu’à une  longue veillée animée toute la nuit  par les groupes du Renouveau Charismatique, de la Divine Miséricorde et des Amis des Ames du Purgatoire. L’occasion a été donnée aux prêtres pendant toute la nuit de se rendre disponibles pour le sacrement de la réconciliation. Ces 24 heures pour le Seigneur ont été pour les fidèles chrétiens de Natitingou, des moments de prière, de chants, d’adoration, de louanges, de méditation et de récitation des litanies, mais aussi et surtout de silence et d’écoute devant Jésus, présent dans le Saint-Sacrement.

Guy DOSSOU-YOVO,                                Cotonou, pour Radio Vatican

ÁFRICA. Reunida Fundação Caritativa do Papa para Países do Sahel

A reunião anual do Conselho de Administração da Fundação João Paulo II para o Sahel iniciou nesta segunda-feira (07/11) em Dacar, no Senegal. A Fundação depende do Pontifício Conselho Cor Unum e é encarregada da caridade desde a sua criação, em 1984.

Até sexta-feira (11/03), a reunião examinará e decidirá os projectos que deve financiar. Em 2015, foram subvencionados 91 projectos, num total de quase 1 milhão de dólares.

Os membros do Conselho de Administração da Fundação são bispos da região do Sahel: Burquina Faso, Cabo Verde, Gâmbia, Mali, Mauritânia, Níger, Senegal, Chade e Guiné-Bissau. Deste país, o representante é o bispo de Bafatá, Dom Pedro Carlos Zilli.

A Fundação promove projectos contra a desertificação, gestão e desenvolvimento de unidades agrícolas, energias renováveis e purificação das águas. Também oferece recursos para a formação de pessoal especializado nos  seus próprios países.

No curso dos anos, a Fundação se tornou um instrumento de diálogo inter-religioso: a maioria dos seus beneficiários pertence hoje à religião muçulmana.

O Sahel é uma das regiões mais pobres do planeta: 100 milhões de habitantes, 24 dos quais em condições de precariedade nutricional; 6 milhões de crianças menores de 5 anos desnutridas. Os recursos hídricos são cada vez mais escassos: o aqueduto que alimenta cerca de 2,5 milhões de pessoas entre Nigéria, Camarões, Níger e Chade teve a superfície reduzida em 80% nos últimos 50 anos. Além disso, a área é alvo de grupos terroristas que ali instalaram campos de treino e praticam violência contra a população.

Os maiores financiadores da Fundação João Paulo II para o Sahel são as Conferências Episcopais da Alemanha e da Itália. 

Bernardo SUATE,                             Rádio Vaticano, Redação Portuguesa

Catholic private schools meet in Kenya

The Catholic Private Educational Institutions Association (CAPEIA) Tuesday began a three-days conference at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa. The theme of this year’s meeting is “The Catholic School – a place to encounter Jesus Christ, the Compassionate Teacher.”

Opening the conference, Bishop Philip Anyolo, Chairman of the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) told participants that Kenyan Bishops were proud of the work by Catholic private schools in Kenya.

“The conspicuous Catholic identity, ethos and values in many of our schools continues to characterise these schools,” he said. He added, “The Bishops’ Conference is banking on you to mentor the youth into persons of integrity and responsible citizens in the midst of all societal, social, economic and political challenges.  You have the capacity and formation to do exactly this,” he emphasised.

At the same occasion, Bishop Maurice Muhatia Makumba, Chairman of the Commission for Education and Religious Education noted that the theme resonated well with the universal celebration of the Jubilee Year of Mercy.

“Our Catholic identity is not an option in our schools.  It is our lifeline.  We embrace and allow it to pervade all aspects of our institutional life; in so doing, we successfully fulfill our God-given mission,” Bishop Muhatia told the conference.

Bishop Muhatia congratulated Catholic schools in Kenya for posting impressive examination results in the school year of 2015.

Some of the topics to be discussed at this years’ conference include Radicalization in schools; Child abuse and corporal punishment; Catholic Identity and faith formation in Catholic Private Schools and Legal issues affecting private Catholic schools.

(CISA, Nairobi)

Email: engafrica@vatiradio.va

ÁFRICA. Seca ameaça de fome populações de várias partes da África

11 milhões de crianças correm o risco de morrer de fome em África SOS Aldeias das Crianças actua programa de emergência na Etiópia

Segundo as Nações Unidas, as pessoas que correm o risco de passar a fome devido à seca em África são cerca de 30 milhões. A África do Sul já declarou estado de calamidade e em Angola, Botswana, Malawi, Zâmbia, Zimbabwe, Lesoto, Swazilândia e Moçambique, a situação de emergência poderá agravar-se ainda mais. Preocupante é a situação na Etiópia, onde mais de 10 milhões de pessoas necessitam de ajudas alimentares.

“As crianças são os mais vulneráveis em tempos de penúria alimentar aguda. Temos necessidade de responder imediatamente, antes que a crise alimentar e a grave má-nutrição os toque de maneira irreversível. Mas, a resposta humanitária deveria ter uma visão a longo prazo. É necessário desenvolver uma estratégia para reduzir sistematicamente a má-nutrição e os factores- chave  que causam vulnerabilidade infantil – afirma Dereje Wordofa, Director Internacional SOS da África Oriental e Meridional.

SOS Aldeias das Crianças Etiópia é parte activa da nova task-force de protecção da infância  guiada pelo UNICEF e pelo Fundo das Nações Unidas para a População, UNFPA. Esta task-force ou grupo de trabalho concentrará os seus esforços no apoio psicológico das vítimas da seca e protegerá  1 milhão de crianças vulneráveis de várias formas: potenciamento dos serviços de protecção da infância, programas de reforço familiar, de apoio e de reunião de menores não acompanhados, e apoio psicológico à infância.

“É encorajador ver que o governo da Etiópia tenha tomado medidas atempadas. Começou por procurar e distribuir alimentos há já um ano atrás. A seca causará, muito provavelmente, aumento dos preços dos produtos alimentares o que incidirá negativamente no bolso das famílias. E poderá ter também um impacto negativo também sobre os programas de reforço familiar, mas a política de prevenção posta em acto juntamente com o governo e com as outras agencias humanitária nos leva a pensar que conseguiremos enfrentar a crise – concluiu Dereje Wordofa.

SOS Aldeias das Crianças começou a actuar na Etiópia precisamente em 1974, ano em que o país foi atingido por uma terrível seca. Hoje está presente em diversas regiões do país: Jimma, Adis-Abeba, Harrar, Hawasa, Gode, Bahir, Dar e Makallé. A Etiópia passou por uma grave crise alimentar entre 1983 e 1985, o que ceifou a vida a cerca de um milhão de pessoas. A Seca de 2011 atingiu 4,6 milhões de pessoas na Etiópia, 4 milhões na Somália, 3,8 milhões no Quénia e 180 mil no Djibuti.

SOS Aldeias das Crianças é uma organização mundial empenhada no apoio a crianças que carecem de cuidados familiares ou que correm o risco de os perder. Surgiu em 1949 e até hoje é a única Associação com capacidade para acolher, no sei das suas Aldeias SOS, 82.300 crianças, às quais garante instrução, curas médicas e tutela em situação de emergência. Promove programas de supor a famílias em estado de necessidade e está presente  em 134 países do mundo, onde ajuda cerca de dois milhões de pessoas. 

Dulce ARAÚJO,                               Rádio Vaticano, Redação Portuguesa 

COTE D'IVOIRE : l’UCAO-UUA s’interroge sur la sécurité foncière et la sécurité alimentaire

La faculté de droit civil de l’Université Catholique de l’Afrique de l’ouest/ Unité Universitaire d’Abidjan (UCAO-UUA ) a organisé du 3 au 5 mars 2016 dans l’amphithéâtre de la dite faculté un colloque international sur le thème « Regard Croisés sur la sécurité foncière et la sécurité alimentaire : quel droit pour l’Afrique ? »

Les intervenants venus de plusieurs pays d’Europe, d’Amérique et d’Afrique, notamment de la Côte d’Ivoire, ont  réfléchi à la résolution pacifique des conflits fonciers et tenter de trouver des réponses à l’insécurité alimentaire qui résulte du changement climatique et qui menace les populations africaines.

Ce colloque a enregistré la présence d’un représentant du président de l’Assemblée Nationale de Côte d'Ivoire et de plusieurs étudiants.

Les conclusions de ce colloque international ont été rendues par Rock Gnahoui David, professeur agrégé de droit privé associé à l’UCAO-UUA et président du comité scientifique de ce colloque.

Pour le père Jean Loès Levergone, doyen de la faculté de droit civil de l’UCAO-UUA, cette rencontre d’échanges a été une satisfaction. Il a par ailleurs souligné que les actes de ce colloque international seront transmis à l’Assemblée Nationale de Côte d'Ivoire pour une prise en compte de ces conclusions.

Françoise NIAMIEN,                                   Abidjan, pour radio Vatican

BENIN : Une journée de détente à Kandi

La direction de l’enseignement catholique de Kandi a initié, le samedi 27 février 2016, pour ses apprenants, une journée de détente. Venus des collèges catholiques Notre-Dame de la nativité de Gogounou et Ozanam du diocèse, ils se sont rassemblés à l’école primaire catholique St Kisito de Kandi sous l’encadrement de leurs enseignants, des policiers et scouts avec le soutien de quelques prêtres, religieuses et religieux, pour ouvrir une  marche qui les conduira, affiches de la Caritas Bénin pour les élections pacifiques en main et au son d’une bande musicale, à travers les rues de la ville de Kandi. Ils ont rappelé, deux heures durant sur leur parcours que « tous,  nous avons à voter pour la paix, la tolérance et autres vertus analogues et ce, dans une ambiance de fête. Le Centre Thomas Mouléro à Kandi Fo qui les a accueillis du retour de la marche a servi de cadre pour le reste des activités de cette journée de détente telles que la visite guidée de la ferme de la spiruline, un complément alimentaire à base d’algues produit par ledit Centre, un entretien sur le thème de l’infanticide rituel par le Père Paul Aimé, un exposé du Père Raoul Gansa sur les questions de l’éducation sexuelle en milieu scolaire et enfin, une projection cinématographique, « Les choristes de Christophe Barathier » sur l’éducation par la musique.

Guy DOSSOU-YOVO,                                Cotonou, pour Radio Vatican

Pain hebdomadaire du catholique. Cinquième dimanche, Carême, Année C. Dimanche 13 mars 2016. Par Théodore C. LOKO*

I. Traits définitoires du laïcat :

Les laïcs constituent l’ensemble des chrétiens qui ne sont pas membres de l’ordre sacré et de l’ordre religieux (Lumen Gentium n° 31) et qui, de par leur baptême, sont incorporés au Christ et intégrés au peuple de Dieu, d’où leur participation, à leur manière, à la fonction sacerdotale, prophétique et royale du Christ.

II. Textes du jour : Isaïe 43,16-21 ; Psaume : ‪125 ; Philippiens 3,8-14 ; Jean 8,1-11

III. Commentaire :

Les textes bibliques de ce dimanche nous révèlent un Dieu libérateur et sauveur. Dans la première lecture, le prophète Isaïe nous rappelle comment le peuple des Hébreux a été libéré de l’esclavage d’Egypte. Mais cet événement fondateur n’est pas que de l’histoire ancienne. Isaïe s’adresse à un peuple qui vient de vivre une longue période de captivité. Il lui annonce cette bonne nouvelle : c’est aujourd’hui que Dieu sauve son peuple de l’exil. Ce dernier va pouvoir entrer dans la Terre promise. Le désert qu’il va traverser sera jalonné d’oasis. Il faut y voir un signe que Dieu peut donner vie et espérance aux cœurs les plus arides. « Voici que je fais une chose nouvelle : elle germe déjà, ne la voyez-vous pas ? Oui, je vais faire passer un chemin dans le désert, des fleuves dans les lieux arides ». Il faut replacer cette annonce dans son contexte, vers la fin de l’Exil, peu avant 538, afin de bien saisir la portée de cet événement historique et des relectures qui en ont été faites.

Nous retrouvons ici les traces d'un nouveau déplacement dans la manière de relire l'épreuve de l'exil. L'auteur n'ignore pas les questions que l'on a posées avant lui. Il a, lui aussi, gémi très fort sur la ruine de son pays : « Voilà un peuple pillé et ravagé. » (Is 42, 18-25). Pour lui aussi, c'est la colère de Dieu qui en est la cause : « Le Seigneur a déversé sur Israël la fureur de sa colère, le déferlement de la guerre » (42, 25).

Mais voici qu'il assiste à un renversement du cours des événements. Il apprend les victoires du roi perse Cyrus contre Babylone (Is 43, 1-8). Les déportés peuvent tout à coup envisager le retour de l'exil. Il faut préparer ce nouvel « exode ». Il faut se mettre en route. Désormais, il n'y a plus besoin de ressasser le passé. Les relectures d'Isaïe deviennent des relectures prometteuses, entièrement tournées vers l'avenir (Is 43, 14-21). Autrement dit, il n'y a désormais à invoquer le passé que pour y chercher les annonces d'un avenir d'espérance. Le visage de Dieu s'éclaire sous un jour nouveau, c'est le visage d'un libérateur qui se dessine.

Dans son Evangile, saint  Jean nous parle de la miséricorde qui libère. Il nous raconte le procès de cette femme coupable d’adultère. Ses accusateurs sont des scribes et des pharisiens, des experts de la loi de Moïse, des personnes reconnues pour leur ferveur religieuse. D’après la loi de Moïse, cette femme devait être lapidée. Mais s’ils se tournent vers Jésus, c’est d’abord pour le piéger. S’il refuse de la condamner, il ne respecte pas la loi de Moïse. Et s’il la condamne, il est en contradiction avec la miséricorde qu’il prêche.

Mais leur propre manœuvre se retourne contre eux : Jésus ouvre un nouveau procès, celui des accusateurs : « Que celui d’entre vous qui est sans péché lui jette la première pierre. » Et voilà que chacun est renvoyé à sa propre conscience. « Dieu n’est pas une épouvante, (il est plutôt) une offrande d’amour ! Dieu a baissé les yeux devant la femme adultère et du coup, il l’a faite libre » (Zundel).

Dans la seconde lecture, nous avons le témoignage de Paul. Au départ c’était un ardent défenseur de la loi juive. Il poursuivait les chrétiens et les faisait enfermer. Mais sur le chemin de Damas, il a rencontré Jésus. Et à partir  de là, tout a changé ; il n’a plus désormais qu’un seul but : se laisser conduire par le Christ. Il a compris que la justice selon la loi n’est pas la vraie justice. La vraie libération c’est celle qui vient du Christ.

* Ambassadeur du Bénin près le Saint Siège

La revue de la presse catholique africaine du Mercredi 09 mars 2016. Par Albert MIANZOUKOUTA*

La revue de la catholique africaine de ce jour nous conduit dans deux pays, l’Algérie et le Niger, où un hasard fortuit a conduit leurs deux organes d’information de l’Eglise à parler de violences. Le portail EGLISE D’ALGERIE, d’ordinaire très sensible au thème de la persécution des chrétiens dans des régions où ils constituent une minorité, se fait un large écho de la nouvelle de l’assassinat de quatre religieuses Missionnaires de la Charité au Yémen. Le portail précise qu’il s’agit de « de deux Rwandaises, une Indienne et une Kenyane (qui) ont été tuées ce vendredi 4 mars 2016 à Aden, au Yémen. Elles ont été attaquées par un groupe d’hommes armés qui s’est infiltré dans la maison où les religieuses s’occupaient de personnes âgées et handicapées. Au total, l'attentat a fait 16 morts. » Autre précise utile qu’ajoute ce portail, la minorité chrétienne au Yémen n’a cessé de s’étioler: « Aujourd’hui, victimes collatérales de la guerre entre sunnites et chiites, les rares chrétiens expatriés sont partis, à cause de la violence et du risque d’enlèvement. Restent donc les plus pauvres, ou ceux qui ont une mission particulière, comme les religieuses des Missionnaires de la Charité de Mère Teresa. Demeurent aussi deux prêtres salésiens, dont le père Tom dont on n’est donc sans nouvelle à ce jour », peut-on également lire.Autre portail sensible aux violences, DIOCESE DE MARADI-Niger qui indique que « Les ressortissants de l'Afrique subsaharienne dans l’œil du cyclone en Algérie ». Serge Xavier Oga explique : « Après la mort d’un jeune algérien qui aurait été tué par un nigérien, l’Algérie a décidé d’expulser des milliers de migrants africains en Algérie. 545 migrants du Niger, de la Gambie, du Sénégal, de la Guinée, du Tchad, de la Côte d'Ivoire et du Cameroun sont concernés par la première vague d'expulsion. 600 autres migrants ont été arrêtés et doivent subir le même sort ». Le portail du diocèse de Maradi indique que ce n’est pas la première fois que l’Algérie expulse des Ouest-Africains.Rendons-nous au Congo où LA SEMAINE AFRICAINE nous donne à lire, avec quelques semaines de retard, le message de Carême de Mgr Victor Abagna-Mossa, Evêque d’Owando. Le journal de Brazzaville indique que ce texte porte le titre : « Cultivons la paix dans la miséricorde ». Le Pays est entré dans une campagne politique pour des élections présidentielle et législatives très disputées et l’Eglise ne cesse d’appeler au calme. L’Evêque d’Owando dénonce l’insécurité grandissante dans le pays, souvent le fait de gangs d’enfants : « La peur et l’insécurité ont chassé la paix et la liberté: ils font la loi dans certains quartiers ceux qu’on appelle «bébés rouges, bébés lilis, kata kata…»… comment comprendre ces actes perpétrés par des enfants et des jeunes assassins? Et que fait l’Etat pour que le peuple vive en paix, en sécurité? … La paix que nous désirons, la vraie paix, celle que Jésus-Christ nous laisse, celle qu’Il nous donne, c’est la paix qui arrache de nos cœurs l’ivraie, la mauvaise herbe, le désir de faire le mal, le désir de se faire collaborateur du péché, collaborateur du prince de la zizanie qui est Satan; c’est la paix qui arrache de nos cœurs l’égoïsme, l’individualisme, l’orgueil », réaffirme Mgr Victor Abagna-Mossa.Enfin, terminons dans l’autre Congo où CENCO, le portail de la Conférence épiscopale nationale, nous donne deux nouvelles de joie et de peine croisées. Ainsi, en même temps que le portail nous annonçait la nomination de Mgr Fridolin Ambongo comme administrateur apostolique de Mbandaka, il nous apprenait le décès de l’ordinaire de cet archidiocèse, Mgr Joseph Kumuondala, dimanche 06 mars dans un hôpital de Kinshasa : « Puisse le Seigneur accueillir son serviteur dans son royaume et lui accorder la récompense promise aux bons et fidèles serviteurs », implore la Conférence épiscopale.

* Journaliste à Radio Vatican/Français-Afrique

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