Christianophobia: data show rising trendHow promising is the future of the Church in Africa?Which priest for which Africa?Education in Mali
The Catholic education system in Mali faces serious threats due to the increase in jihadist violence in the country. Extremist groups have attacked and destroyed schools, especially in the northern and central regions of Mali, forcing the closure of numerous educational centers. This situation jeopardizes the education of thousands of children and young people, and severely affects local Christian communities.
The Catholic Church, through its educational institutions, has played a crucial role in promoting peace and coexistence in Mali. However, growing insecurity hampers its work and threatens to dismantle the Catholic educational system in the country.
Peace project for Congo
The National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO) and the Church of Christ in Congo (ECC), which brings together 64 Protestant and evangelical denominations, have signed the "Social Pact for Peace and Coexistence in the Congo". Democratic Republic of the Congo and in the Great Lakes Region". This agreement seeks to restore peace in the country's eastern provinces, affected by more than 30 years of violence and the presence of numerous armed groups, many with foreign support. The pact is inspired by the African concept of "Bumuntu", which promotes empathy, mutual respect and solidarity, fostering social cohesion and rejecting exclusion and violence.
To implement the pact, CENCO and ECC will form thematic commissions on peace and social cohesion, charged with drafting a National Charter for Peace and Harmony. In addition, an "International Conference for Peace, Co-Development and Co-Existence in the Great Lakes" will be convened.
The risk of being a priest in Nigeria
In Nigeria, Catholic priests have become "soft targets" for kidnappers. The belief that the Church is a wealthy institution is reinforced by observing the vehicles some priests drive, leading criminals to assume that by kidnapping them, the Church will pay a substantial ransom. Kidnapping has become a lucrative business, and priests are seen as vulnerable targets with access to financial resources.
While religious hatred may also play a role in these kidnappings, economic factors play a crucial role. The rector of the seminary, Father Raymond Olusesan Aina, regrets the violence that Christians and Catholics in particular face in NigeriaThe company's mission is to provide a service to the people, noting that many have suffered and even lost their lives because of their faith, particularly in the northern part of the country.
