The Catholic community in Abengourou, Côte d'Ivoire, has been urged to strengthen their faith through prayer and active engagement in church activities. Father Adou Jean-Martial, rector of the Sainte-Famille de Nazareth sanctuary in Kizito, made the call during a mass marking the beginning of the 2026-2027 pastoral year on November 8, 2026. He encouraged the faithful to join various movements, associations, and prayer groups within the church.
Father Jean-Martial emphasized that these church groups serve as platforms for spiritual growth, fraternity, shared responsibilities, and service. He expressed concern that some Christians limit their involvement to attending eucharistic celebrations without actively participating in church structures. According to him, Christian commitment is a personal endeavor, stressing that no one can pray, serve, or engage on one's behalf.
The priest's address was centered on the theme of the diocese of Abengourou's pastoral year, "United for an autonomous diocese, let us walk together in effectiveness, efficiency, and accountability in the Lord's vineyard." He highlighted the need for strengthened solidarity and collective responsibility among the faithful. Father Jean-Martial also underscored the importance of the church's autonomy, which he described as the ability to mobilize its own resources through the generosity of its members.
In his view, the church's autonomy cannot solely depend on external assistance. Instead, he called on the faithful to be generous, citing the idea that "faith goes as far as the pocket," a thought attributed to Cardinal Agré. This, he believes, will enable the community to take care of itself. The priest also encouraged responsible management of material and human resources, particularly in the areas of education, family peace, and asset management.
As the new pastoral year begins, Father Jean-Martial urged Christians to approach it with a living faith, effective commitment, and a spirit of generosity. This, he believes, will contribute to the autonomy and growth of their diocese. The priest's message aimed to inspire active participation and dedication among the faithful in Abengourou.
The call to action by Father Jean-Martial resonates with the broader efforts within the Catholic Church in Côte d'Ivoire to enhance community engagement and self-sufficiency. By encouraging active participation and generosity, the church aims to foster a stronger, more autonomous presence in the region. The faithful in Abengourou are now expected to reflect on their role within the church and how they can contribute to its growth and autonomy.
The mass marking the start of the pastoral year was an opportunity for the community to come together and reflect on their spiritual journey. As the church moves forward, the emphasis on collective responsibility, prayer, and active engagement is expected to shape its activities and growth in the coming year. The diocese's focus on autonomy and self-sufficiency is a strategic move towards sustainability and effectiveness in its mission.
Key points
- Father Adou Jean-Martial urges Catholics in Abengourou to actively engage in church activities to strengthen their faith.
- The priest emphasizes the importance of the church's autonomy through the generosity of its members.
- The diocese of Abengourou's pastoral year theme focuses on unity, effectiveness, efficiency, and accountability.
