The Vicar General in the Cape Verdean Catholic Diocese has emphasized that the Priestly Ministry requires constant renewal. The ministry of Catholic Priests in the contemporary world involves “constant renewal”, the Vicar General of the Catholic Diocese of Santiago in Cape Verde has said.

In an interview with Africa Catholic Media on the sidelines of the annual Theological Week for Catholic Priests ministering in Santiago Diocese, Fr. José Eduardo Afonso said that the renewal helps the Clergy respond appropriately and effectively to the pastoral situations they encounter.

“Being a Priest today requires constant renewal. The world values knowledge and communication skills, and we must ensure that we are well-equipped to serve,” Fr. Afonso told our reporter on February 28.

He added, “We are in a transitional period where society and faith are undergoing significant shifts. It is crucial for us to deeply understand the socio-religious context in which we serve so that we can effectively enculturate the Gospel and make it relevant to people’s daily lives.”

The Vicar General emphasized the need for Catholic Priests’ messages “to resonate” with the people of God under their pastoral care. This requires understanding the faithful and communicating in a manner that “touches hearts.”

“If we do not know the people to whom we are ministering, our message may fail to resonate,” he said, and emphasized, “We must develop the ability to communicate using language that touches hearts and leads to conversion.”

Fr. Afonso continued, “We must be shepherds who walk at the front to lead, in the middle to understand, and at the back to ensure no one is left behind. Jesus’ ministry was marked by closeness; He welcomed, listened, and engaged with the people. We must do the same.”

The February 24-March 2 Theological week brought together some 40 Catholic Priests to discuss how to adapt evangelization methods to the pastoral realities of contemporary society.

The participants explored ways of communicating the Gospel message in a simple, accessible, and engaging manner as to reach the diverse present-day audiences effectively.

The convention of the Catholic Priests also served as an opportunity to reinforce the spiritual and intellectual formation of the Clergy.

In the February 28 interview with our Correspond, the Vicar General of Santiago Diocese said that participants in the Theological week agreed that Catholic Priests must be lifelong learners, continuously updating their theological knowledge and pastoral skills.

He lauded the initiative of bringing Priests ministering in the Cape Verdean Catholic Diocese, saying, “Moments like these allow us to learn from one another; young priests gain wisdom from their elders, and experienced Clergy receive fresh perspectives from younger generations. This dynamic strengthens our mission and unity as a presbyterate.”

Fr. Afonso reaffirmed the commitment of Catholic Priests ministering in Santiago Diocese to enhancing pastoral coordination and promoting a Church that responds to the real needs of the people.

“Evangelization must go beyond theoretical discussions, taking concrete steps to accompany communities in their spiritual and social realities,” Fr. Afonso said.

He went on to express optimism about the impact of the Theological Week on the tradition and pastoral vision of the Cape Verdean Catholic Diocese.

“This event is not just about study; it is about strengthening our identity as Priests and our commitment to the people we serve. It reminds us of our call to be shepherds who lead with love, wisdom, and a deep connection to Christ and His people,” the Vicar General of Santiage Diocese told ACI Africa on February 28.

Day: March 3, 2025

PRIESTLY MINISTRY “REQUIRES CONSTANT RENEWAL

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