At the service of the Church in Nigeria, Uganda, The Gambia, Sierra Leone, and Liberia

Four Episcopal Conferences from West Africa—two from Nigeria, one from Uganda, and one comprising Gambia, Sierra Leone, and Liberia—met with the Dicastery for Laity, Family, and Life to engage in dialogue and listen to one another on the most important issues for their local Churches on the African continent.

Hope in Nigeria

Despite economic and social limitations, the Church continues to invest in formation, evangelization, and accompaniment, keeping hope alive. The lay faithful demonstrate a strong and active faith, actively supporting ecclesial life, despite the scenario of widespread violence in some regions of the country. Faced with weaknesses in faith formation, the bishops of Nigeria highlight the need for more solid formation and more effective pastoral accompaniment.

The Christian Community in Uganda

The bishops of Uganda reported that the Church is vibrant and active, with a strong lay presence and an ecclesial model based on small Christian communities. Despite this growth and dynamism, challenges are emerging, such as syncretism, weaknesses in faith formation, and serious social problems affecting young people in particular. The Church responds with intense pastoral, educational, and social action, focusing on evangelization, accompaniment, and the empowerment of the laity.

Gambia, Sierra Leone, and Liberia United in Promoting Peace

Catholic Church, though a minority in a predominantly Muslim region, plays a significant role in promoting peace, education, and healthcare. The bishops of Gambia, Sierra Leone, and Liberia note growth in faithful and ecclesial vitality, supported by the active commitment of the laity and formation programs, although poverty, defections to evangelical groups, polygamy, and irregular unions persist. Particular attention is given to the formation of young people and families, with marriage preparation programs and pastoral accompaniment. The Church is also committed to promoting human rights and sanctity of life, taking a stand against widespread violence in these countries.