2023 Conference Data
The CLA conference is part of a series of pilot programs aimed at mobilizing young lay African Catholics for substantial theological education, pastoral ministry, and public engagement in service to Africa and the global Church. Themed “In Solidarity with the Church in Africa”, this second edition of the conference focuses on theological engagements within and between the Church in Africa and the United States. The conference brings together over 200 participants including scholars, students, and pastoral agents from across Africa and the United States to reflect on a range of topics including: reimagining solidarity; solidarity and theological inclusion; solidarity and economic justice; co-responsibility and collaborative ministry in the Church's mission; the Church in the United States in solidarity with the Church in Africa; blessings and challenges of church life in America/Africa: lessons for and from Africa/America; what the Church in the U.S and Africa can learn from each other’s liturgical cultures; theology as vocation and career; and the missing voices at the Church’s theological orchestra.
Demographics
The conference convened a total of two hundred and thirty-four (234) young participants, representing forty (40) Dioceses and two hundred and six (206) parishes across twenty-five (25) states within Nigeria. Notably, the event also attracted virtual attendees from international locations, including the United States of America, Kenya, and Lesotho.
Study Interest in Theology
A remarkable 97% of participants indicated a newfound interest in pursuing the study of theology, exemplifying a significant achievement for the conference. Conversely, a mere 3% responded in the negative, indicating a relatively minor dissenting viewpoint.
Channel
The avenue through which participants became aware of the conference was assessed, revealing that friends accounted for the highest proportion at 44%, followed by church or parish at 33%. The Church Life Africa (CLA) represented 19% of the sources, and social media contributed 4% to the overall awareness.