Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Rome (Fides Service) - Founded in 1868 in Algeria by Archbishop Charles Lavigerie of Algiers, the Missionaries of Africa came to be known as White Fathers because of the white habit they chose. Archbishop Lavigierie wanted his missionaries to speak the same language of the people, eat the same food, wear the same Arab clothes. On January 2004 the White Fathers were 1,769 of 37 different nationalities, present with 316 Communities, mostly small, international and intercontinental in: Africa (24 countries), Europe (11), America (4), Middle East (2) and Asia (2). The 26th General Chapter which will close tomorrow, being held at the General House in Rome, examined past activity, formulated guidelines for the future and elected a new general government to lead the Missionaries of Africa for the next six years (2004-2010). Fides interviewed the new Superior General French Father Gérard Chabanon, aged 56, missionary in Tanzania for 20 years.
The chapter took an overall look at the Institute’s missionary activity. What are the most important aspects of your work of evangelisation?
This 26th General Chapter follows on the previous Chapter with regard to our missionary orientation. In particular commitment for interreligious dialogue and the promotion of peace reconciliation, justice and respect for creation in Africa and in the African world. We will continue to live these commitments in close communion with the local Church who welcome our pastoral collaboration. This Chapter also asked for the spiritual foundations of this commitment to be more clearly defined.
What future priorities were identified ? What are the "new fronts" of mission?
It is true that every day new situations of emergency appear. But we prefer in the future to strengthen communities which have to face the great challenges of the African world today: the meeting of cultures and religions, Islam especially; building peace; the AIDS pandemic; the problem of migrants in Europe and North America, and also the promotion of African values.
What are your feelings as you assume the charge of Superior General?
My first sentiments as Superior General of the Missionaries of Africa are first of all, gratitude for the many messages from confreres of our great family. This family is very varied ever more international, but united by the mission which bring us together. At the same time we feel the need for de-centralisation of our structures and our method of government. I am aware also that many want to go forward to work in a more community manner in small teams. This will affect both initial formation and the financing of our apostolate.
You have years of experience of mission in Africa. What has changed in missionary work on this continent compared to 1868, when the White Fathers were founded ?
Since 1868 Africa has changed considerably. From the ecclesial point of view the organisation of local Churches. Bishops are the first to be responsible for mission in their dioceses. Today we often find well organised structures, a clergy, a religious community, a laity who have shouldered their responsibilities. Our task is mainly to fulfil our missionary charisma. Very often a bishop will ask us to help him open to universal mission but also to be present where the local Church still lacks the means for this commitment. It is dialogue with the local Churches which allows us to discern the needs of Africa today. (S.L.) (Agenzia Fides 15/6/2004; Righe 47; Parole 572)
