Addis Ababa, ETHIOPIA — From April 20 to May 2, 2026, the formators of Africa gathered in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, for a formation meeting that marked an important milestone in our journey of fraternal growth. Organized by the General Secretariat of Formation in close collaboration with the two Capuchin Conferences of Africa—CONCAO and EACC—the Schola Fratrum formation course served as a point of spiritual and intellectual continuity for the formators of the continent.
Thirty-two friars from both conferences participated, representing nearly all of the African circumscriptions; in addition, a dozen friars from the General Curia and the conferences joined them to lead discussions on specific topics. The participants were able to systematically analyze the essential pillars of our life, ensuring that those entrusted with forming the next generation of friars are themselves clearly and wisely rooted in our Franciscan-Capuchin charism.
Comprehensive Formation in the Context of Africa
Through interactive sessions and insightful reflections, the following topics were explored in depth: discernment and accompaniment in the Bible (Br. Serge Mbremandji); human formation, inner healing, and integration (Br. Charles Alphonse); cultural issues in Africa and vocational discernment and motivations (Br. Kilian Ngitir); forming our young people to grow both in human and Franciscan relationships (Br. Kamilus Bajuta); formation challenges in Africa and the paths to follow (Br. Hailegabriel Meleku); celebrating and fostering the lay dimension of our vocation (Br. Tatenda Anthon Shumba); formation and fraternal economy (Br. Worku Demeke); mission and formation (Br. Mariosvaldo Florentino); emotional challenges (Br. Waldheim Rodrigues); formation and information technology (Br. Joaquim Hangalo); building a culture of stewardship: strengthening our institutional preparedness (Br. Mathewos Ajabo); JPIC values and experiences in formation (Br. Scaria Kalloor).
After each presentation, the friars engaged in lively discussions, translating theoretical concepts into practical suggestions for improving the quality of formation within our local fraternities.
Visions for the Future
The meeting provided a timely opportunity to encourage the progress of the African conferences. The General Secretariat of Formation took advantage of this grace-filled occasion to:
- Propose centers for formation in collaboration: discuss the vital need for unified formation centers between the two African Conferences.
- Promote the value the vocation of the consecrated laity: reaffirming the unique and specific richness of the lay dimension of our choice of Franciscan consecration.
- Address cultural challenges and reflect on the specific formation obstacles that African academic institutions face due to cultural, linguistic, and financial factors; this topic will be revisited at the upcoming Pan-African Conference of the Capuchins.
At the end of the gathering, the atmosphere was one of joyful renewal. These twelve days were more than just an ongoing formation course; they were an experience of our Gospel brotherhood. As summed up by one of the participants, “We shared our stories, enlightened our hearts, and committed ourselves to following more faithfully in the footsteps of St. Francis of Assisi.”
The success of Schola Fratrum Africa 2026 provided the perfect springboard for Pan-Africa 2027. The friars in attendance took their leave and returned to their respective corners of the continent not only as formators, but also as witnesses to a glimpse of what they can expect at the gathering in Ethiopia.