From May 29th to 31st, 2024, the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, in collaboration with the Zambia Association of Sisterhoods (ZAS), hosted the Catholic Sisters Initiative Convening at the Taj Pamodzi Hotel in Lusaka, Zambia. This convening, themed “Embracing a Shared Vision: Impact, Learning, and Collaboration in Service for the Common Good,” gathered over 110 delegates from various regions worldwide, reflecting a rich tapestry of cultures, backgrounds, and expertise.
Centre for Women Studies and Intervention (CWSI) was represented by its Executive Director, Sister Ngozi Frances Uti , who participated as a panel member on the topic “Solidarity and Dignity: Strengthening Community Advocates.” . Her presence at the convening exemplified CWSI’s commitment to global solidarity and collaborative efforts in addressing critical social issues, particularly those affecting women, girls, and other vulnerable groups.
The convening exemplified the spirit of synodality and unity in diversity, with the primary objective of engaging in thought-provoking discussions, exploring innovative ideas, and charting a course for collective action. The focus was on integrating wellness, safeguarding, and support systems into programs and processes to protect children and vulnerable adults. The ultimate aim was to build empowering communities and foster integrated solutions.
The convening commenced with an exploration of critical advocacy areas, beginning with the fight against human trafficking. Discussions highlighted the urgent need for robust systems to combat this inhuman practices, with a particular emphasis on protecting vulnerable populations. Another focal point was the reduction of gender-based violence, where participants shared strategies and experiences to develop comprehensive approaches to address and mitigate instances of violence against women and girls.
A highlight of the convening was a panel session titled “Synodality: Dialogue with Dicastery Leaders and the Local Church which had discussions on the mission of pastoral responsibilities of their Dicastries and the process engagement with the local church, civil society and governments. The panelists includes:
MUMBI KIGUTHA, CPPS.
Director, Watawa Wa Taa (Moderator)
ALESSANDRA SMIRELLI, FMA, PHD,.
Secretary, Dicastery for Promoting Integral and Human Development
NATHALIE BECQUART, XMCJ,
Under secretary, Synod of Bishops
CARMEN ROS NORTHES, N.S.C.,
Under Secretary, Dicastery For Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life.
Youth empowerment was also a significant topic, with delegates brainstorming ways to create opportunities and support systems for young people to thrive and contribute positively to their communities. Additionally, the well-being of elderly sisters was highlighted. In line with Pope Francis’s call for “intergenerational fraternity” in a fragile world-“Being elderly is a gift from God and a huge resource, an achievement to be safeguarded with care, even in the case of disabling illnesses… And it is undeniable that the pandemic has given strength to our awareness that the ‘wealth of years’ is a treasure to be valued and protected.” the convening emphasized the value and contributions of the elderly, recognizing them as a treasure that requires safeguarding and care.
Throughout the convening, delegates were encouraged to reflect on their organizational visions for the next five to ten years. They contemplated the priority issues and challenges they hoped to address and envisioned their organizations’ growth and goals. There was also a focus on anticipating how their work and the broader context might evolve over time.
The sessions concluded with a forward-looking perspective on transformational collaboration. Discussions highlighted the importance of building stronger networks and joint programs, leveraging new technologies such as AI, and making better use of data to inform and guide community programs.
As the convening drew to a close, there was a renewed sense of hope and determination among the delegates. The Catholic Sisters Convening in Zambia not only provided a platform for sharing and learning but also set a precedent for future efforts aimed at creating a more just and compassionate world. The spirit of synodality and unity in diversity that permeated the convening will continue to inspire and guide collective work in the years to come.
Participants of the Catholic Sisters Initiative Africa Convening gather for a group photo on the lawn at the Taj Pamodzi Hotel, Lusaka, Zambia (May, 2024).
