Cotonou, 24 October, 2025 / 6:28 pm (ACI Africa).
The representative of the Holy Father appointed on August 15 for Burkina Faso and Niger has described his new mission as both a challenge and a grace.
Speaking to journalists upon arrival in Benin for his Episcopal Ordination scheduled for November 15, Mons. Eric Soviguidi emphasized the close connection between local churches and the universal Church, highlighting the importance of Benin’s contribution to global ecclesial service.
“We give thanks to the Lord and ask for His help to carry the responsibility this represents. Every congratulatory message I receive is a prayer for me. It is both a challenge as well as grace,” Mons. Soviguidi, a native of Benin, said upon arrival at Cotonou’s Bernardin-Gantin International Airport on Thursday, October 23.
He added, “A local church is always in line with the universal church. And I think it's beautiful that the universal church asks from time to time the sons of different local churches for this service.”
“I think it is important that each church contributes to the service of the Pope, of the Blessed Virgin, and of the universal church. I hope there will be others. I think it is together that each particular church constitutes the universal church,” the Archbishop-elect said.
