“We must not be just more people. We must make the difference. And it is for that reason that those situations that we heard yesterday – of corruption and harassment and abuses of millions – everything that goes against this evangelical beauty, must not have space in our daily lives, in our action, and in our school,” Archbishop Imbamba said.
Acknowledging challenges educators face, the Local Ordinary of Angola’s Saurimo Catholic Archdiocese cautioned teachers and staff in Catholic schools against losing sight of the nobility and responsibility of their vocation. He said, “Our mission is not easy. But it is beautiful; it is holy; it is fruitful.”
He described a Catholic institution as a sacred space of cultural and spiritual transformation. “It is salt that gives flavour to society, it is light that illuminates paths, and it is yeast that transforms the human heart,” Archbishop Imbamba said.
He went on to describe Catholic education as “an act of radical love,” noting that it must go beyond academic instruction to the formation of ethical, compassionate individuals.
“It is not just about teaching skills or content. It is about forming full men and women, conscious, responsible, capable of loving and serving,” the Catholic Church leader said, and described the mission of Catholic educators as a path of love and self-gift.
“This beauty does not wear out in consumption; it’s not distracted by the fascination of things; it’s not worn out by the fascination of power and vainglory, but a love that knows how to give itself as life. And full life. Life in God, life with God, life for God,” he said.
He added, “Let us be, in each classroom, a reflection of the light of Christ. May our gestures, words, and decisions convey the love that educates, frees, and humanizes.”
“May we return to our Dioceses and schools as one family—firm in faith, united in love, guided by truth—capable of building a new generation, integral and committed to the dignity of the human person,” Archbishop Imbamba implored.
Organized under the theme, “50 Years of Independence: A Look at the Contribution of Catholic Schools to the Quality of Education in Angola,” the General Assembly brought together delegates from all 20 Dioceses of Angola.
Delegates reflected on topics such as the role of Catholic schools in citizenship formation and values, the relationship between family and Catholic education, women’s empowerment, and the future of Catholic schools in light of global and African education pacts.
