COMSAM Symposium for the Religious in Johannesburg, South Africa
The Symposium on Hope, Synodality and the Empowerment of the Consecrated life in Africa was organized by the Conference of Major Superiors of Africa and Madagascar (COMSAM) and it was held from the 22nd to the 25th of May in Johannesburg. This historic event marked the first time South Africa hosted a gathering of such significance. Nearly 300 participants, including sisters, brothers, priests, and some laypeople, came together for this unique occasion.
A selfie of Sr. Suany De Oliveira MSC, with her religious friends who also participated in the Symposium
The theme of the Symposium was Hope, Synodality, and the Empowerment of Consecrated Life in Africa. It served as a beacon, drawing together numerous religious congregations, both women and men, from various parts of Africa and Madagascar. These individuals are dedicated to serving the people across the continent.
The Symposium featured a multitude of speakers who shared their insights and experiences. They encouraged participants to reflect on vital questions and statements, including:
How does Hope sustain us and our mission?
Who walks with us in Hope now?
Who needs us at this moment?
Synodality calls us to discern and make decisions collectively, emphasizing the spirit of inclusion and collaboration. It challenges us to transcend what we are already doing. Synodality is not mere formality but a communion rooted in our differences.
This gathering provided a unique opportunity to nourish the Consecrated Life in Africa, uplifting the spirit of service and prophecy within the Church today. The Symposium underscored the tasks of Consecrated Life: to build the Kingdom of God in the present, to embody Synodality, and to nourish Hope. In essence, the Symposium was a special time to strengthen the bonds of community and mission among those committed to the Consecrated Life, offering a renewed sense of purpose and direction for the future.
