The testimony sent to us by Fr. Mathias Quédraogo, from the parish of St. Louis de Temnaoré, in the diocese of Koudougou, Burkina Faso, shows us once again the commitment of local communities in this phase of the synodal process, but also the difficulties that are felt in the implementation of this participation in some parts of the world. We share the testimony of Father Mathias Quédraogo:
“The Church of Africa in communion with the Universal Church is invited to speak and to speak about herself through the Synod on synodality. Our diocese, the diocese of Koudougou in Burkina Faso, after the opening of the work, invited all the faithful and all the groups of the diocesan family to participate.
The documents were translated into the local languages Moore, Lyele and Nuni (many Christians speak these languages) to allow a good understanding. The Lenten period was chosen for answering the questionnaire and the date of April 10 for the presentation of the summary.
The Church is a material and immaterial reality founded by Jesus Christ. To respond to her mission, she must always seek her substance in Christ and give adequate responses to the expectations of the men and women of our time.
It must be acknowledged that Burkina Faso is a country that has suffered terrorist attacks for seven years, the situation is difficult and some parishes will not be able to respond. Many parishes are closed and pastoral workers have been killed.