The launch of the strategic plan, the first of its kind was inspired by a growing awareness of the need for structured guidance, which led the Bishops during their 2021 General Assembly to develop a comprehensive strategic document.
Launched at the TEC Lay Formation Centre in the Catholic Archdiocese of Dar es Salaam, the strategic plan is aimed at enhancing the participation of the laity in Church life, supporting the growth and effectiveness of lay associations and apostolic movements, and fostering the spiritual, social, and economic well-being of Catholics throughout the country.
Besides environmental stewardship that seeks to implement the Laudato si' vision through climate education, sustainable use of resources, and Church-led environmental initiatives, the strategic plan also seeks to deepen evangelization and pastoral formation for children, youth, adults, and the elderly.
It also seeks to build robust governance and operational systems within the Laity Council, including capacity-building and financial sustainability, and to promote unity among the Clergy, Religious, and the Laity.
The plan also seeks to promote inclusive socio-economic development mainly “to empower lay groups in entrepreneurship, vocational training, and education, particularly among marginalized communities.”
Additionally, the five-year strategic plan also seeks to promote institutional strengthening with an aim of building “robust governance and operational systems within the Laity Council, including capacity-building and financial sustainability.”
In the July 20 interview with ACI Africa, Ms. Ashley described the move to have the strategic plan as “a Spirit-filled and historic milestone for the Church in Tanzania” and lauded the Bishops and the Laity for “this bold and visionary step.”
She said that as the plan’s implementation begins, “I hope it also amplifies the recent calls from joint continental Bishops of the Global South, particularly the need to advance renewable energy sovereignty, phase out fossil fuels, and reject false solutions.”
“The Church truly flourishes when the Laity are formed, empowered, and united in mission,” Ms. Ashley told ACI Africa.
Reports indicate that the Strategic Plan, with a budget of TZS 2.5 billion, will be implemented through inclusive and participatory processes at both local and national levels. Funding will be sourced from diocesan contributions, fundraising efforts, partnerships with development agencies and NGOs, private donors, and, if necessary, financial institutions.
