Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Algiers (Fides Service)- The Catholic Archbishop of Algiers Henri Teissier has described pastoral work in Algeria as a common mission with Muslims. Presenting pastoral activity for the coming year in the local Church bulletin La Semine Religieuse d’Alger, the Archbishop said “We are happy that God has given us a common mission here in Algeria. And this mission is all the more important at a time when the pressure of globalisation comes up against reaffirmation of the specific identity of different civilisations, nations and cultures. We are convinced that by means of the ‘sacrament of encounter’ we are called to operate together with our Muslim friends in their diversity, welcoming those among them who wish to have a better understanding of who we are” the Archbishop writes.
Speaking of priorities for the coming pastoral year the Archbishop mentioned several needs: promote an inter-diocesan effort for formation; open communities wider to offer new arrivals a worthy welcome; help students from sub-Saharan Africa to integrate better into our communities; prepare the Church in Algiers to offer a spiritual welcome to expatriates and new tourists, particularly pilgrims to places connected with St Augustine and Charles de Foucauld, soon to be beatified: support efforts to make places where people can hear the breath of God; reconsider the place and mission of the local Caritas office in view of charity work.
“The long list might appear discouraging” the Archbishop said, “but part of our programme was started this Summer and so we have already advanced.”
During the customary Inter-diocesan meeting in July the community reflected on the Eucharist, witness and reconciliation. Also in the Summer local Catholics took part in various courses of formation including a course on the theme of Reconciliation in the Bible led by Fr. Jean Toussaint. Students from France helped students from sub-Saharan Africa to reflect on their role in the local Church in Algeria. “The diocesan chaplain arranged for a group of students to spend some time in the Community of Taizé” the Archbishop said. “We offered local children and young people an enjoyable holiday at a successful Summer Camp organised by Sr Hyam, again with the help of French students”.
The Archbishop concludes the article welcoming ‘new forces’: the Lazzarist Fathers will open a second community in Algeria; the Jesuits are expecting a new Father from Costantina; the Focolare movement present for 30 years in Algeria with a female community is now present with a male community; the White Fathers have sent a trainee and new Sisters are awaited by the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary, the Salesian Sisters and the Sisters of St Joseph”. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 19/10/2005 righe 38 parole 454)
