SECAM hosts continental seminar for African Catholic Youth

Sr. Mary Adelaide Ndilu, I.H.M. - Nairobi

The event brought together 50 young Catholic leaders from 22 African countries, highlighting their role in shaping the future of the Church.

Youth engagement

The seminar, held at Savelberg Retreat Centre aimed at reinforcing the importance of youth engagement in the Church’s mission. It emphasized their unique calling to serve, lead, and evangelize within their communities.

Speakers included prominent clergy, religious and youth themselves who challenged the delegates to reflect on the Church’s vision in Africa – one rooted in faith, hope, and social justice. The participants engaged in a series of inspiring talks, workshops, and cultural exchanges, all focusing on empowering them.

Opportunities for growth

The African Catholic Youth emphasized the importance of active engagement and participation in the Church’s decision-making processes and activities. They called on the Church to recognize their potential and provide opportunities for their growth and involvement, enabling them to contribute effectively to the Church’s mission and evangelization efforts.

The young people came up with 5 priorities they will focus on in the next five years starting 2026-2030. These include: Faith and Mission; Leadership and Participation; Socio Economic Empowerment; Digital and Social Media Empowerment; and Ecology and Peace Building.

The gathering was marked by vibrant discussions and discernment and saw the proposal of two groundbreaking initiatives.

African Youth Day

The youth proposed the establishment of an African Youth Day, a dedicated occasion for spiritual growth, and solidarity highlighting the critical role young people play in shaping the future of the African continent. This initiative will be, not just an event but a continental celebration of faith, unity and mission where young people encounter Christ, encounter one another and return home renewed to transform their communities.

The fruits of the African Youth Day will be: a stronger continental identity, greater cross-border collaboration, a joyful platform for catechesis, vocation promotion, cultural exchange among others.

Pan-African Catholic Youth Council,

Additionally, the participants advocated for the creation of a Pan-African Catholic Youth Council, rooted in SECAM’s Vision 2025-2050 and the Synod on Synodality. This would be a true platform for communion and mission where young leaders plan together and speak with one voice to SECAM and the universal Church.

The proposals are underway and once done, they will be presented to the SECAM leadership for consideration, marking a potential milestone in the journey of African Catholic youth towards greater engagement and responsibility in the life of the Church.