Ethiopia: All is set for Africa's continental phase of Synod on Synodality

Vatican News.

Vatican News' KiSwahili language staffer, Fr Richard Mjigwa CPPS, is already in Addis Ababa for the continental gathering.

Praying for the success of Synod

Reporting for Vatican News. In Swahili, Fr Mjigwa said the composition of the 200 participants comprises lay persons primarily, some priests, sisters, young people, some seminarians, and novices, as well as 15 bishops and 7 cardinals.

On Wednesday morning, the SECAM organising committee held its first meeting chaired by the new SECAM President, Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo, the Archbishop of Kinshasa. This session was preceded by Holy Mass led by SECAM's First Vice President, Bishop Lucio Andrice Muandula of the Diocese of Xai Xai in Mozambique.

During the Mass, the Bishop prayed for the success of the Synod meeting and celebration in Africa.

Peace and stability in Nigeria

Bishop Muandula also prayed for peace, stability and reconciliation in Nigeria as the country makes initial steps to emerge from a disputed presidential election.

Nigeria's ruling party candidate Bola Tinubu has been declared winner and president-elect.

The official opening of the Africa Synodal continental phase will be on Thursday. Of particular mention is the presence of many participating young men and women. They represent a section of society often not at the table when important decisions are made.

Closing Holy Mass will conclude the Continental Stage of the Synod on Synodality. This Eucharist will be celebrated at the Sports Stadium in Addis Ababa.