Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) - “It is precisely due to its abundant resources that the African nations attract so many foreign interests and cause wars and fratricide among the African people. Thus, the theme of the upcoming Synod, 'The Church in Africa in Service to Reconciliation, Justice, and Peace' is very pertinent and urgent.” This is what Agenzia Fides was told by Fr. Kieran O'Reilly, Superior General of the Society of African Missions (SMA), religious institute that has been working in the evangelization of Africa since 1859 and is now present in 16 countries. We asked him his reflections, as this Second Special Assembly of the Synod of Bishops on Africa approaches.
In light of his deep experience in Africa, where missionaries come from all over the world to preach the Gospel, the SMA Superior General explained that “there are various levels of wounds from the war, clashes, and conflicts, although the most highlighted by the mass media is those caused by the civil war that involve the countries rich in raw materials. Unfortunately, everything is used to defend or promote personal interests, whether it be of the few elite of Africa or foreigners. There is no distinction. They all hurry and fight to secure their use of the mineral resources, oil, or natural resources like wood, diamonds, etc. of the individual regions. Where there are resources, there are also more conflicts and wars.”
The theme of the Synod harps on a passage from the Gospel of Matthew: “You are the salt of the earth...you are the light of the world” (Mt. 5:13-14). Fr. Kieran says, “the Church has always been present where people suffer, to offer help and hope. Unfortunately, politics and many of civil society is permeated by a terrible corruption, so the faith has to struggle to be 'heard,' as it is often set aside. The Church runs into many obstacles in evangelizing, due to the corruption. She must always work to present a message that is often considered uncomfortable.”
As for the general attitude of people towards the Church, the Superior General of the SMA says that “we are well seen. It is the place of health and education, as we run hospitals and schools. In many areas, the Church is the only institution that offers education and health. This is why the leaders respect the Church, as they have no other choice if they don't want to lose the support of the people.”
“I am convinced that the Synod will continue the work of the previous Synod Assembly,” Fr. O'Reilly concluded. “And it will be important to offer hope to the community, to those who suffer. The theme says it clearly: it is our responsibility to offer a concrete resolution, with guidelines and instruments and not only in words, to reconcile a continent that is truly ravaged by civil war and fratricide.” (MT) (Agenzia Fides 1/10/2009)
