French-Born Bishop-Elect for Algeria’s Constantine Diocese Hopes for Hospitality

Speaking in reference to the wider region of North Africa, the Bishop-elect said, “the Catholic faith has existed here for centuries. We are one of the oldest churches in the world. There have been Christians here since the 2nd century.”

He added, “It is a very family Church, very close to the people, very committed to society. And at the same time a small universal Church in miniature as we are about 80 nationalities here. This characterizes all our churches in North Africa, from Morocco to Libya. It is an experience of fraternal family communion."

“We are at the crossroads of three worlds: the African world to which we belong, the European world, and the Eastern world,” Mons. Lhernould said and added, “There are some Europeans, some Orientals, many Africans, and new disciples, people who come from different horizons, and who let themselves be touched by Christ.”

“Interreligious dialogue is very important and at the same time ecumenical dialogue, but also because there are Christians of different faiths in our regions and once again, it is really fraternal love that makes us recognize that we are the disciples of Jesus and this fraternal love should be lived in an ecumenical way too.” the Bishop-elect said.

“Inter-religious dialogue with our Muslim brothers and friends is a little bit like the oxygen we breathe every day,” Mons. Lhernould concluded.

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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.