Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher visited Congo-Brazzaville to inaugurate the Joint Commission of the Framework Agreement recognizing the Church’s independence. His visit included a Mass dedicated to the Jubilee of Ecclesial Movements and emphasized Pope Francis’ love for the Congolese people amid their challenges. He thanked the local community for their faith and highlighted the example of Cardinal Emile Biayenda, encouraging the youth to hold onto hope during the Jubilee year.
Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, the Vatican Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations, recently undertook a visit to the Republic of the Congo. This visit marks the commencement of the Joint Commission aimed at executing the Framework Agreement established in 2017, which acknowledges the Church’s legal status in Congo-Brazzaville and seeks to uphold its independence and autonomy. During his stay, Archbishop Gallagher celebrated Mass at the Cathedral Square in honor of the Jubilee of Ecclesial Movements, alongside prominent ecclesiastical figures, including Archbishop Bienvenu Manamika of Brazzaville and Papal Nuncio, Archbishop Javier Herrera Corona.
In his homily, Archbishop Gallagher conveyed heartfelt greetings and blessings from Pope Francis, who is keenly invested in the realities faced by the Congolese people. “The Pope loves you” was underscored, emphasizing his awareness of their aspirations for peace and fraternity amidst visible humanitarian challenges following last year’s heavy rainfall and flooding, which affected countless individuals.
Furthermore, the Archbishop acknowledged and thanked the Congolese for their steadfast witness to the Gospel, notably honoring the memory of Cardinal Emile Biayenda, a martyr whose cause for beatification was initiated by Pope John Paul II. The cardinal remains a beacon of faith within the region. Archbishop Gallagher encouraged the youth to remain hopeful regarding their future, echoing Pope Francis’ resolute message, “Do not let hope be stolen from you,” particularly during this Jubilee year which calls for intense dedication to evangelization.
The visit of Archbishop Gallagher to the Republic of the Congo serves a significant purpose as it signifies the engagement and acknowledgment of the Catholic Church’s role within the country. The Framework Agreement, effective since 2019, denotes a formal recognition of the Church’s autonomy amidst a complex socio-political landscape. This visit also reinforces diplomatic relations between the Vatican and the Republic, while promoting humanitarian awareness and support, especially in light of recent adversities faced by the nation.
Archbishop Gallagher’s visit to Congo-Brazzaville highlights the Vatican’s sustained commitment to supporting the local Church and its communities amid challenges. Through his messages of love and hope from Pope Francis, the Archbishop not only addresses the socio-economic struggles faced by the Congolese people but also encourages continued faith and resilience. This visit reinforces the bond between the Vatican and the Church in Congo, and calls for active participation in evangelization efforts, particularly among the youth.
Original Source: www.vaticannews.va
