African synod to discuss dialogue with other Christians, Muslims

Published: 2006-03-09

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- The Synod of Bishops is planning the next synod for Africa, which will focus on dialogue with other Christians and Muslims, among other issues. The Vatican said in a written statement issued March 8 that synodal themes, "far from being a mere socioeconomic analysis" of what is happening on the continent, "should be marked by a strong" emphasis on Christ. The statement said the church in Africa is dedicated to proclaiming the Gospel message, to inculturation and promoting social programs as well as to promoting dialogue with other Christians and believers of other faiths, "in particular with Muslims." It also said it recognized that the lay faithful were "the protagonists" in bringing the light of Christ to the world. The secretary-general of the Synod of Bishops, Archbishop Nikola Eterovic, and members of a special council for Africa attended a Feb. 23-24 meeting in Rome to discuss preparations already under way for the next synod for Africa. The last was in 1994; the date for the next synod has not been announced.

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