The Colombian-born Jesuit Bishop emphasized the need to align theology with the mission of evangelization in Africa. He lamented, “Even in theology, we have not produced theology for evangelization but for teaching theology, becoming doctors of theology, or obtaining diplomas in theology. The evangelized are in parishes, while theologians remain in the academy. This is a divorce.”
“The Church evangelizes when she seeks to convert, solely through the divine power of the message she proclaims, both the personal and collective consciences of people, the activities in which they engage, and the lives and concrete milieu which are theirs,” he said referring to December 1975 Apostolic Exhortation of Pope Paul VI, Evangelii Nuntiandi, which he termed a key document on evangelization.
The Catholic Church leader, who was at the helm of Soddo Vicariate since his Episcopal Consecration in March 2007 till his retirement in January 2014 said that evangelization must lead to transformation that “seeks to transform society from within.”
“To evangelize is to transform, not only to instruct or preach but to change people’s minds,” he emphasized.
The January 29 conference aimed to critically explore theology’s role in addressing Africa’s pressing challenges while bridging the gap between spiritual ideals and real-world issues. It emphasized the relevance of theology in fostering a just, inclusive, and transformative society.
In his opening remarks, the Principal of HUC, Fr. Marcel Uwineza, said the event explored the vital connections between faith, politics, justice, and healing, demonstrating African theology’s capacity to serve as a prophetic force in reshaping societal structures.
Speaking at the same event, the Catholic Bishop of Nigeria’s Sokoto Diocese, underlined the need to restore Africa’s identity and develop a theology that reflects everyday experiences of her people.
Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, who presented the topic, “Why the Church Cannot Be Spectators,” urged the people of God in Africa to be active participants in the societal issues.
“We can no longer remain passive observers in Africa’s political, social, and economic development. Justice must be at the heart of our approach to politics, theology, and social engagement,” Bishop Kukah said.
He called upon the people of God in Africa to emulate St. John Paul II who he said influenced his perspective by the way he shattered “the illusion of disengagement and demonstrated that political participation in a dysfunctional society is imperative.”