A PROVEN FOUNDATION FOR FRUITFUL MINISTRY
CONGRESS X PLAN OF ACTION
Most Reverend John H. Ricard, S.S.J.
President of the Board of Trustees
(Article: Page 8 of 19)
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AFRICA
 The National Black Catholic Congress Movement has
always seen the importance of having strong bonds with Mother Africa. Africans
have been a part of the Catholic Church since her beginning, shaping the
Church's message and her advancement. Africans have been "raised to the altars
of the Church" as exemplary models of discipleship for Christians around the
world.
Deepening our understanding of our African heritage
has led us to a deepening of our understanding of Christianity. It has also
contributed to the incorporation of cultural values in liturgy, catechesis, and
rites of passages programming, among other areas.
ACTIONS SINCE CONGRESS IX
§ Identified the following priority areas of concern in regard to Africa: Sudan,
HIV, poverty and economic issues.
§ Suggested activities to build stronger relationships with our brothers and
sisters from Africa.
CONTINUING OUR SOLIDARITY IN ACTION (2007-2012)
Goal #1
Every parish, apostolic organization and/or Office of Black Catholic Ministry
will join or establish a legislative network to advocate for ethical policies by
our federal government towards the continent of Africa.
Step to Achieve Goal#1
Work with Catholic organizations to learn more about existing Catholic
legislative networks (e.g., state Catholic conferences) and to educate parish or
diocesan organizations about these efforts.
Goal #2
Every parish, apostolic organization and/or Office of Black Catholic Ministry
will establish a relationship/partnership with a parish, diocese, or apostolic
organization in Africa.
Step to Achieve Goal#2
Work with Catholic organizations to learn more about Global Solidarity
Partnerships and twinning relationships.
Goal #3
Every parish, apostolic organization and/or Office of Black Catholic Ministry
will support, create or participate in community events to celebrate
contributions from our brothers and sisters in Africa.
Step to Achieve Goal#3
Work with local African Diaspora communities to learn about community events.
Goal #4
Every parish, apostolic organization and/or Office of Black Catholic Ministry
will support the
Solidarity Fund for the Church in Africa, which has been instituted by
the USCCB.
Step to Achieve Goal#4
Contact the USCCB to learn more about the Solidarity Fund for the Church in
Africa.
SACRAMENTAL FOUNDATIONS THAT HELP OUR EFFORTS TO
BEAR FRUIT
Sacrament of Baptism ~ We are incorporated into the Catholic Church. As
beloved children of God and disciples of our Lord Jesus Christ, we continue to
build bonds with one another as members of the household of faith (cf. Galatians
6:10). There are no foreigners in the Catholic Church. Living in solidarity with
our sisters and brothers is in keeping with this reality that God has given us a
great dignity and glorious destiny.
Sacrament of Reconciliation ~ As we have
experienced reconciliation with God, we are ambassadors of reconciliation with
others. This informs our desire to promote conflict-resolution in Africa and at
home, which can build right relationships and just societies.
Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick ~
Concern for those who are suffering from illness has been the impetus for
creating medical institutions. It is one of the critical concerns of our global
relief agencies. By working to support treatment of diseases across the
continent of Africa, such as HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis, we invoke the
power of the Holy Spirit to protect those who are suffering and to provide
fortitude and peace.
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