| During the 1992 papal visit to Senegal's Goree
Island, Pope John Paul stood in the Door of No Return and blessed the descendents
of those kidnapped from Africa's shores and asked forgiveness for the Roman
Catholic Church's participation in African Slavery. Bishop Robert J. Baker,
Diocese of Charleston, followed the leadership of the Pope and extended
his apology to African Americans in the Diocese of Charleston.
Africa exemplifies a land full of cultural heritage and friendly people.
Spectacular wildlife and stunning landscapes. Its diversity enhances better
understanding and offer opportunities for being in service to others,
both at home and abroad. We gave freely of our resources to the poor.
Although the primary religion in Africa is Islamic, the presence of the
Catholic Church in Africa and its service to the poor is common knowledge
among all Africans. Support for the Church in Africa is greatly needed.
While visiting a family in Senegal, a youth girl approached me and asked
if I had any books, the only book I had was a time magazine that I carried
for personal reading. When I gave this to the girl she ran to the teenage
boy that was teaching some younger youth under a tree, and gave the magazine
to him, the young teacher, immediately began reading the book with such
fascination. He stopped teaching and carefully read each page. It was
like he was fulfilling a hunger.
Regina Mundi Catholic Church It is our call as Catholics to help the
poor. By educating others on Africa, initiating and supporting activities
that provide safe avenues for the poor to receive our help, we can meet
our spiritual call. In the Diocese of Charleston, we are blessed to have
eight priests from Diocese/Archdiocese in Africa serving in our Diocese.
Through the presence of African priests our dioceses we can be of tremendous
help to Africa by sending needed resources through them. For more information
on how you can help, contact the National Black Catholic Congress or your
local diocesan office of Black Catholics or Social Ministries.
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