Africae Munus And Priestly Formation: Some Practical Questions

Abstract

The agenda for the future Catholic Church in Africa can be found in Africae Munus, the post-Synod Apostolic Exhortation presented by Pope Benedict XVI in Benin in November 2011. The document is challenging in developing the follow-up to the commitment of the Second Africa Synod (October 2009) to promote a “Church in service to reconciliation, justice and peace.” This article highlights four emphases in AM with questions that have implications for priestly formation in our seminaries today. Theological Development should be practical and pastoral and focus on the task of inculturation. Pastoral Orientation needs greater attention to a renewed Sacrament of Reconciliation. Social Involvement puts a strong emphasis on the Church’s social teaching as a tool to effect commitment by Catholics in justice affairs. Personal Priority means building a spirituality that manifests zeal. In all, there must be a balance between politicization and spiritualization in our response to the Synod’s call.