The Vatican II Council marked a “significant shift in how the Church interacts with civil society, moving away from the earlier model where the Church relied on state power to protect its interests. Instead, the Council emphasized the importance of religious freedom and the dignity of the human person, principles that continue to shape the Church's social teachings today,” he said.
He acknowledged with appreciation the progress made since Vatican II, and added that much work remains to be done especially in the era of digitality.
“The digital age has ushered in unprecedented advancements, but it has also deepened the chasm between the haves and have-nots. Cyber power is now a key determinant of economic and social status, and those without access to technology are being left behind in every aspect of life,” he said.
Credit: ACI Africa
This divide, Cardinal Turkson warned, could lead to “marginalization if not addressed through inclusive policies and equitable distribution of technological resources.”
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“Today, we must draw on that same spirit of renewal of Vatican II as we confront the challenges of our time. The Council's emphasis on collegiality, dialogue, and the inclusion of the Laity in decision-making processes is a model for how the Church can move forward,” he said.
The Cardinal went on to highlight how the First Special Assembly for Africa of the Synod of Bishops in 1994 and the ongoing Synod on Synodality built upon the Vatican II vision of power.
Credit: ACI Africa
He said that these events have addressed specific challenges and opportunities within African contexts in their advocacy for a more inclusive and participatory approach to power.
“The African Synod emphasized the importance of contextualizing the Church's teachings within the unique cultural and social realities of Africa. It called for a Church that is deeply engaged with the realities of its people, promoting justice and peace in a way that resonates with local contexts,” Cardinal Turkson said.
Regarding the multi-year Synod on Synodality, which Pope Francis extended to 2024, with the first phase, 4-29 October 2023, having concluded with a 42-page summary report and the second session scheduled for 2-29 October 2024 in Rome, he highlighted the focus on “listening and dialogue” as important.
Credit: ACI Africa
“The Synod on Synodality invites the entire Church to engage in a process of listening and dialogue, reflecting on how we can build a Church where all feel they belong and contribute. It challenges us to rethink traditional structures and relationships to foster a more inclusive and participatory Church,” the Catholic Church leader said.
He went on to call for reflection and engagement in examining power dynamics within the Church and society. “As we navigate the complexities of power in today’s world, we must continually reflect on how our faith and teachings guide us in these dynamics,” Cardinal Turkson said.
He added, “As the Church seeks to renew itself, it can also offer a prophetic witness to the world by challenging unjust power structures and advocating for the dignity of every human person.”
Credit: ACI Africa
“In a world where power is often used to oppress and exploit, the Church must stand as a beacon of hope and a voice for the voiceless,” the Ghanaian-born Cardinal said, adding, “The legacy of Vatican II, the African Synod, and the Synod on Synodality offers valuable insights into building a more just and inclusive Church and society.”
The Cardinal called on leaders in the Church and society to engage in a “critical reexamination of power dynamics,” and added, “This is not just a challenge for the leaders of the Church or the powerful in society; it is a call to each of us to examine how we use the power we have in our own lives. Whether in our families, our workplaces, or our communities, we must strive to use power in ways that reflect the values of justice, compassion, and the common good.”
“May the Spirit of God lead us as we seek to reimagine power in our Church and in our world, so that all may experience the fullness of life that Christ came to bring,” Cardinal Turkson implored in his inaugural lecture for the opening of the 2024/2025 academic year of HUC.
Credit: ACI Africa
The new academic year at HUC has been placed under the theme, “HUC@41 Forward and Upward: A Bold Vision Filled with Hope.”
In his address during the August 17 event, HUC Principal, Fr. Marcel Uwineza, said the theme of the new academic year shows the institution’s "commitment to continuous improvement, academic excellence, and spiritual growth while building on the legacy of its founders and predecessors."
HUC Principal, Fr. Marcel Uwineza. Credit: ACI Africa
Reflecting on the HUC’s achievements since it marked four decades of existence last year, Fr. Uwineza noted that 99% of the objectives set under 2023/2024 theme, “Moving from Better to Best”, had been accomplished.
“Going forward means continuing to progress, to build on the strengths of those who came before us, and to learn from the mistakes of the past. Mistakes are not failures; they are opportunities for growth and wisdom. This is the essence of Hekima—wisdom that comes from lived experience,” the Rwandan-born member of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) said.
As part of the new academic year's agenda, Fr. Uwineza announced the launch of a new six-year strategic plan aimed at expanding the University College’s programs, increasing its global visibility, and ultimately transitioning the Jesuit institution of higher learning into a full-fledged university.
Credit: ACI Africa
He called on faculty, staff, and students to contribute to this mission, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and a shared commitment to achieving “these ambitious goals”.
In his welcoming remarks to new students, Fr. Uwineza encouraged them to “engage deeply with the academic and spiritual life” at HUC, inviting them to embark on a journey of “serious scholarship and personal growth.”
The HUC Principal reminded students that the true value of their education “lies not in external accolades but in the depth of their knowledge and the positive impact they can have on those around them.”
Credit: ACI Africa
Fr. Uwineza also underscored the importance of maintaining a positive attitude toward studies and lecturers, urging students to make HUC their home and fully commit to their academic journey.
On her part, the Chair of the HUC Council, Mrs. Margaret Muhoro, emphasized the importance of time, dedication, and collective effort in achieving the HUC’s “ambitious goals.”
HUC Council, Mrs. Margaret Muhoro. Credit: ACI Africa
Mrs. Muhoro underscored the value of hard work and perseverance in achieving academic success.
“No masterpiece was ever created by a lazy artist. Excellence is not an accident. Obstacles don’t have to stop you. If you run into a wall, do not turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it,” she said.
Credit: ACI Africa
Mrs. Muhoro encouraged HUC students to engage fully with the opportunities provided at the Jesuit institution of higher learning, reminding them that learning is a process that often involves overcoming multiple challenges.
“You have a well-laid-out stage—the faculty, learning infrastructure, and a beautiful environment—all set! You cannot be a spectator; Obey the weather—dance in tune, in rhythm, bring your whole self to the stage,” she said.
Credit: ACI Africa
She reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to supporting the HUC strategic plan, which she said seeks to drive growth and expansion in every facet of the institution.
“The clock is ticking; it is time to move forward and upward with boldness and hope,” the HUC Council chair said.
Peter Kodwo Appiah Cardinal Turkson. Credit: ACI Africa
Credit: ACI Africa
Credit: ACI Africa
Credit: ACI Africa
