Tradition vs. Transformation: What’s Next for the Church?
In a lively synodal conversation, African Catholics engaged in crucial discussions that could reshape the continent’s ecclesial landscape. The gathering tackled pressing issues such as polygamy, the potential for female deacons, and the need for new ministry structures. Each topic revealed the complex interplay between tradition and change within the Church.
Polygamy in the Spotlight: Can the Church Adapt?
The dialogue about polygamy began with Kenyan advocate Rev. Sister Leonida Katunge. She spoke about her recent research on polygamy and highlighted the challenges faced by polygamous families within the Church. These families, active in church life, often feel excluded from sacraments and leadership roles. Following her intervention, another law expert, Sr. Agnès Sory, a professor of Canon law and jurisprudence at the Pontifical Urbanian University in Rome, proposed a controversial yet practical solution: allowing polygamous spouses to choose one wife. She acknowledged that this idea faces significant cultural and practical obstacles. Nigerian priest Augustine Anwuchie also emphasized the need for more nuanced pastoral support, drawing from his experiences with committed polygamous parishioners. The discussion highlighted the urgency for the Church to align its doctrines with the realities of its diverse congregations.
Women Deacons and Married Priests: A Call for Change
The conversation took a transformative turn as the focus shifted to the roles of women and married priests in the Church. Sr. Prof. Josee Ngalula, member of the International Theological Commission, passionately argued for reinstating female deacons, citing historical evidence that women once held these roles in the early Church. Her appeal was not framed as a feminist agenda but as a return to long-standing Church traditions. This perspective has garnered growing support from episcopal conferences and bishops, who now advocate for a broader restoration of the diaconate.
Mr. Ogbuefi Tony Nnacheta highlighted the pressing issue of clergy shortages while arguing that the solution cannot be found through permanent diaconal ordinations. Cardinal Winfrid Napier joined the call for reform, emphasizing the need for the Church to adapt its practices to meet the needs of its faithful better while staying true to its core doctrines.
Cultural Clash: Polygamy vs. Doctrine
The synod also delved into the cultural implications of Church doctrine. Mr. Justin Giningakpio raised concerns about the risk of alienation if the Church insists on monogamy, stressing that polygamy is a deeply ingrained aspect of many African cultures. Fr. Dor Luka pointed to the marginalization of young people in polygamous families, advocating for their inclusion in the sacramental life of the Church. Mr. Likibi argued for a more inclusive approach, suggesting that integrating polygamy into Church practices could help prevent the alienation of African Catholics.
Tradition and Transformation in Tension
The synodal debate highlighted the intricate dance between tradition and transformation within African Catholicism. As the Church grapples with these critical issues, balancing preserving its heritage and embracing necessary changes will be vital to remaining relevant and responsive to its diverse and evolving congregations.
