ETHIOPIA: AMECEA Pastoral Coordinators Propose Framework for the Implementation of Amoris Laetitia.
National Pastoral Coordinators from AMECEA Region have proposed a number of strategies for the implementation of Pope Francis’ Exhortation Amoris Laetitia.
During the three-day workshop held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from 6th – 8th March, the coordinators prioritized strengthening the family,, children upbringing and marriage preparation.
“Instability both in the family and religious life, education and family apostolate in view of parental responsibility and fidelity, spirituality of family and pastoral care given to the family among others are key pillars for the success of Amoris Letitia,” said Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Chimombo, AMECEA Pastoral Coordinator.
Fr Chimombo said that the pastoral coordinators will undertake a number of activities towards the implementation of the Papal document among them; promoting the institution of the family as the basis of evangelization in the region; spearheading the translation of Amoris Laetitia document into local languages at National Level; capacity building for Bishops and Diocesan coordinators, and training of the trainers on the document Amoris Laetitia as a tool that can be used in marriage tribunals.
Participants at the workshop which was facilitated by the Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA) and attended by AMECEA Chairman for Pastoral Department Rt. Rev. Philip Anyolo, proposed that AMECEA should develop a framework that can be used by National Conferences for marriage preparation. All these proposals are however subjected to the approval by the Bishops.
Meanwhile the coordinators also came up with a proposed implementation plan for duties and roles of Pastoral coordinators in the region. The proposed outline will therefore be presented to the Bishops at the conferences and once approved, will be used in all the dioceses throughout AMECEA Region.
The Pastoral Coordinators Meeting was supported by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB).
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By Pamela Adinda and Fr. Winfield Kunda in Addis Ababa
