SW News: The faithful in Africa should avoid sectarianism and “embrace an inclusive culture rooted in Christ”, said the leadership of the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM). The appeal came as a goodwill message to believers for the July 29 celebration of SECAM Day.

In the message to believers, the leadership exhorted them to eschew everything that creates divisions and to place God first in their lives and nurture true fraternity. SECAM Day marks the establishment of the Symposium way back in 1969 when Pope Paul VI visited Uganda.

"SECAM Day reminds us of our oneness with God and with each other in Jesus Christ, which transcends all our differences and puts them in the proper perspective," said Cardinal Philippe Ouédraogo, Archbishop of Ouagadougou and president of the Symposium, in the message bearing his signature.

The Cardinal said at a time marked by conflicts and violence in the continent, the invitation is to encourage an inclusive culture rooted in Christ where there is “neither Jew nor Greek, master or slave.”

He also appealed to brother bishops to promote communion and implement the Kampala Document, the pastoral exhortation brought out in January calling for a renewed and proactive missionary commitment.

Cardinal Ouedraogo also thanked brother bishops, the clergy, consecrated persons and lay members of the Church in Africa and the islands for their commitment to Evangelization.

Although SECAM Day is observed on July 29, it is moved to the following Sunday when the date falls on a weekday as is the case this year. On Sunday, August 1, the cardinal will lead the Holy Mass. In all parishes and churches in the continent, there will be commemorative Masses.