From June 1st to 7th, 2011, Secular Franciscans, Franciscan Youth and Spiritual Assistants gathered at St. Bonaventure’s College in Lusaka, Zambia for the 5th Congress of English-speaking Africa. Representatives from Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, South Africa, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and Zambia came together to reflect on the theme of the Congress, “Identity and Commitment,” and to mark the 10th anniversary of the promulgation of the SFO General Constitutions. The Congress was hosted by the National Fraternity of Zambia under the capable direction of its National Minister, Honorius Chilufya, and his National Council. The International Presidency was represented by Doug Clorey, Vice-Minister General, Lucy Almiranez, Presidency Councillor, and Fr. Martin Bitzer, OFM Conv and Fr. Amanuel Mesgun Temelso, OFM Cap, General Assistants to the SFO.

Presentations and work sessions formed the basis of how the Congress conducted its work. Doug and Marion Clorey presented on “Profession”, Lucy Almiranez on “Sense of Belonging”, and Fr. Martin Bitzer and Fr.Amanuel Mesgun Temelso on the importance of spiritual assistance and the role of the Major Superiors in providing spiritual and pastoral assistance to the SFO. Honorius Chilufya presented on Franciscan Poverty versus Self-Sustainability. Participants in the Congress also discussed Franciscan Youth as well as the role of the International Fraternity.

In addition, the African Congress served as an opportunity to discuss the need for an “Africa Project” that could support the life of the Secular Franciscan Order in Africa. It was agreed that such a project was required to better coordinate communications between national fraternities in Africa, to enhance support to emerging fraternities as well as to strengthen established fraternities, and to address formation as a priority, including the training of formators and the provision of formation materials.

With a grateful heart, participants in the Congress visited Victoria Falls in Livingstone and Lake Kariba in Siavonga, sights which reflected the greatness of God and inspired everyone to praise God with St. Francis.