Ecclesia in Africa

The Post-Synodal Apostolic Exhortation Ecclesia in Africa of Pope John Paul II on the Church in Africa and its evangelizing mission with a view to the year 2000 was published on September 14, 1995.

The individual chapters

It is divided into seven chapters and deals with the extremely important situation of the African population. The first chapter highlights the historic ecclesiastical moment that results from the implementation of the Africa synod for the continent.

The second chapter focuses on the Church in Africa. The history of evangelization is presented and current problems of the Church in Africa are pointed out. Social hot spots are shown and positive values ​​are highlighted. Attention is drawn to the formation of evangelization agencies.

The third chapter is devoted to the proclamation and mission of the Church, theological foundations are worked out and based on dialogue . Full human development is emphasized as important and the use of social communication media is emphasized.

The fourth chapter begins with a look ahead to the third century and outlines the current challenges. Cooperation with families, the importance of training and the dignity and role of men and women are all important.

The fifth chapter deals with clear structures of evangelization and their carriers. All clerics are called upon to implement these demands and use all available means.

Chapter six discusses theological expectations and describes the areas of concern. The youth, the scourge of AIDS , the refugees, the high national debt and the dignity of African women are described as examples .

In the seventh chapter and at the end, it is again expressed that the mission is an open one and that pastoral solidarity is a cornerstone on the way to the new Christian millennium.