Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Bissau (Agenzia Fides) – Bishop Pedro Zilli of Bafatá will attend the celebration of World Youth Day 2010 being held in Ziguichor (in Casamance, Senegal), March 26 to 28. This is what was stated in a note sent to Fides, specifying that the invitation to the local Bishops' Conference has come from His Excellency Bishop Maixent Coly, Bishop of Ziguinchor, for the communities of Guinea-Bissau and Gambia.
Since 1985, with the creation of World Youth Day, the Diocese of Ziguinchor has welcomed this youth activity. This year, it will be the 25th Day, which will therefore have a special meaning.
The 2010 WYD takes place after the conclusion of the Special Synod for Africa in 2009, which is why participants will reflect on the theme of reconciliation, justice, and peace in the three neighboring countries: Guinea-Bissau, Gambia, and Senegal.
Young people, according to the Synod, now constitute the majority of people in Africa, and deserve special attention in the face of numerous challenges such as unemployment, political exploitation, drug abuse, and other plights.
In addition to Bishop Zilli, the Diocese of Bafatá will also send some young people. As for the Diocese of Bissau, Bishop Jose Camna will be represented by his Vicar General, Father Domingos Ca, and a group of young people. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 24/3/2010)
