The Catholic Church in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, has marked the beginning of its 2026-2027 pastoral year with a call to pastoral agents to delegate tasks and responsibilities. Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo, Archbishop of Kinshasa, made the call during a mass at the Notre-Dame du Congo Cathedral in the Gombe commune of Kinshasa. He emphasized that delegating tasks does not absolve one of their primary responsibilities.
According to Cardinal Ambongo, delegating responsibilities is crucial for the success of the evangelization mission and the well-being of those involved. He cited the biblical account of Jethro, Moses' father-in-law, who advised Moses to share responsibilities and delegate tasks to others. This, the cardinal said, would help prevent burnout and ensure the continuity of the mission.
The pastoral year, themed "Identité chrétienne catholique: dignité et fierté" (Catholic Christian Identity: Dignity and Pride), aims to deepen the encounter with Christ and welcome new followers. Cardinal Ambongo stressed the importance of forming Christians in the values of Catholic faith and strengthening their Christian identity. He also announced that the next five-year pastoral plan would focus on listening, discernment, and participation in a spirit of synodality.
The 2026-2027 pastoral year will also focus on integral ecology and environmental conservation, given the environmental challenges facing Kinshasa. Cardinal Ambongo deplored the city's state, citing pollution, proliferation of plastic waste, disappearance of green spaces, and recurring floods. He called on the faithful to get involved in protecting the environment, stressing that loving God means loving His creation.
The Archbishop of Kinshasa emphasized that the Catholic Church is not substituting the state but cannot remain indifferent to the degradation of living conditions in the capital. He encouraged pastoral agents to prioritize prayer and seek the strength of the Holy Spirit to accomplish their mission. The mass marked the official opening of the 2026-2027 pastoral year of the Archdiocese of Kinshasa.
Cardinal Ambongo also recalled that being sent on a mission should not be conditioned by the search for comfort. He exhorted pastoral agents to be mindful of their health and well-being while carrying out their duties. The cardinal's message was conveyed during a solemn mass attended by various dignitaries and members of the faithful.
The Kinshasa Archdiocese's pastoral plan for the next five years will be centered on integral ecology, among other themes. The Church's initiative aims to promote environmental conservation and sustainable practices in the face of pressing ecological challenges. Key to this effort is the involvement of the faithful in caring for creation.
Key points
- Pastoral agents in Kinshasa are urged to delegate tasks to ensure successful evangelization.
- The 2026-2027 pastoral year focuses on integral ecology and environmental conservation.
- The Catholic Church in Kinshasa aims to promote Christian identity and values among its followers.
