Abuja, Nigeria. The 7th International Theological Conference of the Institute of Consecrated Life in Africa (InCLA) took place from November 4 to 8, 2023, in Abuja, Nigeria, and was well attended by esteemed guests, scholars, and representatives from over 50 congregations. The conference, themed “Jubilee of Consecrated Life, Pilgrims of Hope on the Path of Peace,” served as an opportunity for consecrated persons to reflect on the last 25 years and look ahead to future challenges and opportunities, especially as the Jubilee Year of Consecrated Life approaches in 2025.
The conference was graced by notable personalities, including His Lordship Most Rev. Wilfred Chikpa Anagbe, CMF, the Catholic Bishop of Makurdi Diocese and Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) liaison for the Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life, who delivered the keynote address. Representatives from the Conference of Major Superiors of Nigeria and numerous congregations were also present, highlighting the broad support for the gathering. Among the key figures contributing to the event were Fr. Peter Okonkwo, CMF, Director of the Institute; Fr Jude Thaddeus Langeh, CMF, President of African Claretian (represented by Fr. Nathaniel Ekeh, CMF, Superior of East-Nigeria Province); and Fr. Cletus Kpalap, CM, Vice President of the Conference of Major Superiors of Nigeria.
Key Themes
A series of presentations by renowned scholars addressed the theme’s various dimensions:
- Fr. Ferdinand Okorie, CMF, delivered the first paper titled “Treasure of Creation: New Dynamics in Consecrated Life,” urging consecrated persons to consider their role in promoting ecological stewardship and sustainable development.
- Fr. Cornelius Omonokhua led a colloquium on “Interreligious Dialogue as a Path to Universal Dialogue,” focusing on the importance of interfaith cooperation to foster peace in increasingly diverse societies.
- Fr. Anthony Kanu, OSA, presented “Option for the Poor, A Mandate for Consecrated Persons,” highlighting the call for consecrated persons to prioritize service to the poor and marginalized as an essential component of their mission.
These thought-provoking presentations were complemented by group discussions and interactive sessions, offering participants an opportunity to delve deeper into these themes and exchange ideas.
Resolutions and Recommendations
The conference concluded with a set of resolutions, capturing the collective aspirations of the participants:
- Relevance in Modern Challenges: Consecrated persons were encouraged to remain responsive to issues of poverty, insecurity, and discrimination.
- Fostering Collaboration and Optimism: Institutions were urged to promote collaboration and optimism, working together for a better future.
- Commitment to Gospel Witness: The attendees reaffirmed their commitment to bearing witness to the Gospel, embodying resilience, hope, and light in their ministries.
- Priority of Charity and Solidarity with the Poor: Charity, both within religious communities and in wider society, was underscored as a priority, with a specific focus on serving the most vulnerable.
- Ecological Stewardship and Laudato Si’: Recognizing environmental degradation as a critical issue, the conference encouraged incorporating Laudato Si’ into Catholic education and practicing ecological responsibility in daily life.
Conclusion and Future Prospects
The conference was formally closed by Fr. Peter Okonkwo, CMF, Institute Director, following a motion for the adoption of the communique by attendees. In his closing remarks, Fr. Okonkwo expressed gratitude for the conference’s success and extended an invitation to the 8th International Theological Conference. The event was a testament to the commitment of African consecrated persons to live out their mission as “Pilgrims of Hope on the Path of Peace,” carrying forward the message of Christ and a renewed commitment to serve amidst evolving global challenges.
