Faced with “economic, climate, political disorders,” North Africa Bishops Support Migrants

CERNA has always called for cooperation from member countries in addressing the issue of migration, which has caused suffering in the region.

In their statement, the bishops also recalled some important events that have stimulated the “churches to work for the Islamic-Christian brotherhood.”

They cited the beatification on December 8, 2018 of Bishop Pierre Claverie and his eighteen martyred companions, the document on human fraternity signed on February 4 this year, Pope Francis' visit to Morocco on March 30 and 31 and the choice of Archbishop CristÓbal López Romero of Rabat as Cardinal as some of the events that strengthened the Islamic-Christian brotherhood.

The Prelates resolved to “engage more as a Church, in partnership with Muslims, in a common service to the weak and the poorest.”

They also expressed the desire to protect women and children from abuses saying, “We remain vigilant about protecting children, women and the most vulnerable people from the risks of sexual abuse, power or conscience.” 

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“We have clarified the Guidelines promulgated in 2013 on how to deal with abuse by persons in authority. Places for listening and prevention and commissions are available to all,” they added.

During their September 22 to 25 meeting, the bishops shared their concerns and joys with Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary (Relations with States) of the Secretariat of State, and with Cardinal-elect Miguel Angel Ayuso Guixot, President of the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue.

CERNA is currently chaired by Archbishop Paul Desfarges of Algiers in Algeria and covers Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, Libya and Western Sahara.

Jude Atemanke is a Cameroonian journalist with a passion for Catholic Church communication. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from the University of Buea in Cameroon. Currently, Jude serves as a journalist for ACI Africa.