Church in Africa marks Golden Jubilee of the publication of ‘Dei Verbum’

The First Director of the Biblical Apostolate in Africa and Madagascar (BICAM), Rev. Monsignor Wynnand Amewowo, has emphasised the need to construct a bridge with a two-way communication highway between Exegesis and Biblical Apostolate.

This he explained is because the “aim of Exegesis and Biblical Apostolate is practically the same: evangelization – proclamation of the Word of God. Although their starting point of departure may be different, the point of arrival is ultimately the same – interpretation and applying the Word of God to life.” 

Referring to Dei Verbum No. 45, Msgr. Amewowo said exegetes, theologians, pastors, promoters of Biblical Apostolate and the lay faithful should be  encouraged to create “a closer working relationship” among themselves and to promote “greater communion in the service of the Word of God”

He made these observations in a presentation to participants at a continental celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the Promulgation of Vatican II Dogmatic Constitution on Divine Revelation, Dei Verbum, the Magna Carta of Biblical Apostolate. The celebration is taking place in Kigali, Rwanda from 9 to 11 November. Msgr. Amewowo spoke on the topic: Exegesis and Biblical Apostolate: Dialogue Between Exegetes, Theologians, Pastors And Biblical Apostolate Facilitators.

Noting that the Church has made consistent progress and growth in the scientific, pastoral and liturgical study of the Bible, Msgr. Amewowo feels that more still has to be done regarding the role of various members of the Church in the interpretation of the Scriptures. This he said, calls for enlightened access to the Scriptures by exegetes, theologians and pastors who must share the abundant wealth of the Divine Word with the faithful.

Earlier in the day, Fr.  Yves-Lucien Evaga Ndgana, Director of BICAM at a meeting of Experts took them through the different stages of work on  a project for the  production of  an African Edition of the French Liturgical Bible.

(Benedict Assorow, Director of Communications, SECAM)

Email: engafrica@vatiradio.va