On the Church in Africa and its evangelizing mission toward the year 2000.
The Apostolic Exhortation Ecclesia in Africa, promulgated by Pope John Paul II on September 14, 1995, is the fruit of the First Synod of Bishops for Africa, held in 1994. This document addresses the reality of the Church in Africa and its evangelizing mission in a context of social, political, and cultural challenges.
Following the significant growth of Christianity in Africa during the 20th century, the Church on this continent faced challenges such as poverty, ethnic conflict, corruption, and globalization. In this context, Ecclesia in Africa seeks to strengthen African Christian identity and its role in building a more just and fraternal society.
Ecclesia in Africa has been a fundamental document in the history of the African Church, inspiring the creation of new pastoral structures and promoting the inculturation of the Gospel. His call for reconciliation and development remains relevant today, in a continent that still faces great challenges but is also witnessing vibrant growth in the Christian faith.