AMECEA: Communication Shapes Identity, AMECEA National Coordinators Told
Sr. Jecinter Antoinette Okoth, FSSA
During the annual planning meeting for the National Coordinators from the Association of Member Episcopal Conferences in Eastern Africa (AMECEA), the participants were reminded that their role is key in the region as communication shapes identity.
Reflecting on the message by the Prefect of the Dicastery for Communication, Dr. Paolo Ruffini, that ‘Communication builds on communion and communion build on authentic communication,’ the AMECEA Chairman Bishop Charles Sampa Kasonde highlighted that, “It is true that through communication we get to know who we are and what our aspirations are.”
Speaking on behalf of the AMECEA fathers, Bishop Kasonde of Solwezi Diocese, Zambia, acknowledged that the Prelates of the region are ready to accompany the communicators.
“We assure you our closeness and remember we depend on you for communication, and we want to consolidate efforts by giving you this assurance that we shall walk together,” Bishop Kasonde said in his opening remarks on Tuesday, November 26.
Giving highlights on some of the topics for the four-day discussions, the Chairman of the AMECEA social communication department, Bishop Fransua Noel Seyoum, raised concern about the need to raise awareness on the Final Document that was released after the secondand last session of the 16th Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops last October.
“The Synod on Synodality is now over; it is obvious that not everyone will set out to read it. It will largely fall on you communicators to make it accessible in the local Churches,” Bishop Seyoum of Hosanna Vicariate Ethiopia disclosed and urged the participants from the AMECEA conferences to come up with ways that will enable the Final Document of the synod “to become a way of life and a witness of new life in AMECEA region.”
On his part, the Chairman of the Communication Commission for the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) Rt. Rev. Wallace Ng’ang’a Gichihi appreciated the collaboration between the conferences and the association saying, “As we embark on this forum, allow me to appreciate the collaborative efforts we have had with AMECEA. Our partnership has enabled us to share best practices, learn from one another, and build a network of support that transcends regional boundaries.”
The Bishop of the Military Ordinariate of Kenya highlighted that the workshops and training sessions have enriched the understanding of the diverse contexts in which communicators operate, hence “This collaboration reflects our collective commitment to our mission and to fostering unity within the Church and society at large.”
He called upon all the participants to actively engage in discussions, and share insights from the respective countries to enhance growth.
“Let us explore new ideas and innovative approaches that will enhance our work as communicators of the Gospel. Together, we can overcome challenges and embrace the opportunities that lie ahead,” Bishop Wallace said and narrated further, “Let us continue walking together, inspire one another, and build a brighter future through effective communication.”
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