SECAM at the fourth world gathering of the Global Christian Forum in Accra

The Global Christian Forum organized the fourth world gathering in Accra, Ghana, from 15 to 20 April 2024. Christians from all over the world took part to this faith assembly which “reflects a beautiful mosaic of contemporary Christianity with its rich diversity while still founded on our shared identity as followers of Jesus Christ”, said The Holy Father in his message to participants.

More than 200 Christians have gathered from 60 different countries, representing the diversity of the Christian family. Among them, delegates from Vatican and from the Symposium of the Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM). Held at Accra Ridge Church, an inter-denominational center, the theme of the fourth Global gathering in Accra is: “That the World May Know” (John 17:23b).

During this forum, a message sent by Pope Francis was read out by the secretary of the Dicastery for Promoting Christian Unity, Msgr. Flavio Pace. This year’s theme “calls on Christians to embody the unity and love of the Triune God in their personal and ecclesial lives so that they bear witness to a world scarred by division and rivalry”, wrote the Pope.

For the Chief of the Catholic Church, “unity is an indispensable element for embracing the vision of the Kingdom of God” and “there is an intrinsic bond between ecumenism and Christian mission, Throughout its history”. He wished that this gathering deepens the faith and revitalize their fraternal love as they are praying together, sharing their personal stories and addressing the challenges facing the global Christian community.

Personal stories with Jesus

“During the meeting we shared our own stories with Jesus as Christian in small groups with other participants from different countries,”, indicated Rev. Fr. Jean Germain Rajoelison, 2^nd Deputy General of SECAM Secretariat, in charge of Justice, Development and Peace Commission, who represented SECAM at this global Christian forum in Accra.

“It was very interesting to meet so various Christians of different denominations praying and sharing about their missions and activities, but also reflecting together on Christianity in the world”, he added.

At the opening worship service, Rev. Lydia Neshangwe, president of the All-Africa Conference of Churches and moderator of the Uniting Presbyterian Church of Southern Africa, preached about the unlikely pairing of Barnabas and Saul, called together by the Holy Spirit despite a litany of differences. Addressing the participants, Rev. Lydia was grateful to remind that “we are stronger together, and we need to demonstrate unity, then the world will know that Jesus is the Son of God.”

Charles Ayetan

Most Rev. Mgr. John Bonaventure Kwofie, Archbishop of Accra, and his Secretary in a working group during the fourth global Christian forum from April 16 to 19 in Accra, Ghana/Charles Ayetan.