Association of Member Episcopal Conferences in Eastern Africa
Secretariat:
P.O. Box 21191 NAIROBI, Kenya
Telephone: +254 20 3878008 / 10
Fax: 3878009, 3871590
E-mail: amecea@africaonline.co.ke

The 16th AMECEA Plenary Meeting

Reconciliation through Justice and Peace
in AMECEA Region
27th June – 7th July 2008
Lusaka, Zambia

- Report No.3

My Impressions and Learnings: 2 DAY AMECEA LUSAKA
From Fr. Erasto Shayo M.Afr.

I would like to share with you my personal impression of the first study session of the AMECEA 16th plenary assembly. The discussion was animated by an in-put of Fr. Elias Omondi sj. Fr. Omondi sj helped the participant to analyze the current situation in the AMECEA countries particularly the causes of conflicts, wars and instability
I found Fr. Omondi’s theological analysis of image of the disciples on the road to Emmaus very powerful. He invited us to look at how Jesus journeyed with his distressed disciples listening to their stories and empowering them to see the significance of their experiences beyond their immediate anguish and fear.

As agents of justice and peace we need to look at our situation not only with a critical mind but with hearts filled the hope of the Risen Lord.
The first task therefore is recognize the presence of Jesus in the midst of conflicts, wars and instability, the second step is encountering with Jesus in social analysis, trying to understand the complexities of social, political economic situation. The third phase is engaging in the mission of reconciliation in the breaking of bread together. Finally we need to be a people of hope and resurrection. As messenger of the gospel we need to build a church that is prophetic, vigilant and intrusive.

We must be prepared to pronounce the gospel values fearlessly and ready to walk with people in moment of distress and suffering. We must anticipate signs of times and propose alternative actions. We need not wait until conflict arises. Finally we must be part of the various processes responsible for the well being of the society. We must be partners and active agents for change.
It is a gigantic task but we need not be overwhelmed by the massive nature of the conflicts in Africa. We must ourselves as catalysts and like a mustard seed we can make a difference. The journey towards Emmaus is costly. It does not come by easily.

What was most interesting for me was the quiet but persistent whispering cry of many participants for the church to put into practice what she teaches. Fr. Omondi agreed with the participants that it is crucial that the church engages in self-examination. We must be prepared to honestly face our own internal divisions. People easily perceived when we are divided and me may lose our credibility as agents of peace, justice and reconciliation.

Fr. Erasto Shayo
St. Mbaaga Formation Centre
P. O. Box 12059 Arusha, Tanzania
Tel: 255 27 250 1321
Cel: 255 754 845 823