July 2023 - Pan-African Catholic Theology and Pastoral Network

The Malawian BBI Cohort took part in Maula Deanery Youth Recollection by Fr Jean KESSE.

On November 1, 2022, Pope Francis had a virtual encounter with University Students from different parts of the continent. At that event that became the official inauguration of the Building Bridges Initiative, the Pope encouraged the youth to become the architects of their futures. “Young people, says the Holy Father, have to be involved socially, politically, religiously, culturally and intellectually.” They must fight to protect their society from those threatening to destroy it. And this must begin today, not tomorrow, insists the holy father. But this involvement in the life of their Church requires that they be well-equipped both intellectually and spiritually to maintain a balance as they soar in the vast space of the planet. Consequently, some Malawian BBI cohort members participated in Maula Deanery Youth Recollection to replenish their spiritual treasures. The spiritual exercise that took place on March 25th gathered more than 750 youths under the theme “May they all be one” (John 17:21). The recollection included several spiritual activities, starting with the Way of the Cross, followed by a Mass and lunch. To be faithful to the African holistic view of spirituality, the recollection did not stop with teachings and liturgical activities. The youth entertained themselves with different cultural and sports activities. Throughout the day, the speakers encouraged youth to reflect on the importance of unity in their lives and in the world around them. The Way of the Cross helped them meditate on Jesus’ sacrifice and his love for all of humanity. It was also their way of spiritually preparing themselves to work for their future and all the youths on the continent. This brings to mind the words of the pope to the participants of the virtual encounter: “Please continue working, striving for your future; don’t allow yourselves to be enslaved; be cautious and make sure you stay alive,” During Mass, the youth prayed together and received the Eucharist, strengthening their connection with God and each other. The theme “May they all be one” from John 17:21 reminded them of Jesus’ call for unity among his followers and encouraged them to strive for peace and understanding in their relationships with others. The entertainment also had a spiritual component, with music and performances that uplifted and inspired the youth to live out their faith with joy and enthusiasm. The recollection provided a meaningful and transformative experience for all who participated.

Pactpan Partners with CUAMM to Lunch “Just in Time in Low Resource Settings”

Leave a Comment / Health and Healing, Pactpan, Pactpan Academy, Pactpan partners / Nnaemeka Ali, O.M.I

Doctors with Africa CUAMM and Pactpan are thrilled to announce an online and free training course called “Just in Time in Low Resource Settings” – (JIT). JIT is divided into seven modules, with each module subdivided into a compulsory unit (recorded lectures) and optional further readings. As can be read from their website, it will equip healthcare workers to work in various facilities proficiently and safely during disasters in high and low-resource settings. In addition to enhancing their preparedness, the programs will assist healthcare professionals by improving their ability to respond effectively in disasters, their perception of preparedness and confidence, and their comprehensive understanding of emergency activities and procedures. Just in Time in Low Resource Settings is being organized by the Italian NGO Doctors with Africa CUAMM in partnership with Pan-African Catholic Theology and Pastoral Network—PACTPAN. Founded in 1950 by Francesco Canova, CUAMM was formerly called the University College for Aspiring Missionary Doctors. The project’s primary objective was to recruit and educate medical students from Italy and other countries who were enthusiastic about dedicating part of their professional careers to serving in mission hospitals and supporting disadvantaged communities in developing countries (Casagrande, 2016). CUAMM transformed in 1971 following the enactment of Italy’s initial law on cultural, scientific, and technical collaboration with underdeveloped nations. This law recognized the benefits of volunteer work and marked a significant step forward. A year later, the Italian government officially acknowledged Doctors with Africa CUAMM as a volunteer organization authorized to perform institutional functions in developing countries to promote development and cooperation activities (Ibid.). Present in seven African countries – Angola, Ethiopia, Mozambique, South Sudan, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, and Uganda – CUAMM researches “maternal, child and newborn health; infectious diseases; universal health coverage and equity; nutrition and chronic diseases” (Casagrande, 2016). In addition to CUAMM’s already existing partnership with some countries, hospitals, nursing and midwifery schools, and some universities, its present collaboration with Pactpan will go a long way to welcoming CUAMM to many other African countries. The partnership will help CUAMM train more healthcare workers in the basic principles of disaster medicine and public health emergencies, as well as prepare to understand “the standard operating procedures to be adopted before (preparedness), during (response) or after (mitigation) a disaster”. Just in Time in Low Resource Settings will be delivered in English, and the participants will be able to receive a digital certificate of attendance. The full presentation of the course is accessible here: https://doctorswithafrica.org/en/whats-new/news/just-in-time-in-low-resource-settings/ REGISTRATION: To register for the JIT’s free training, fill out the form here: 👉 For Faith-Based Organizations and Pactpan Network: For Health Professionals and Others: For further information, contact: infojit.2023@gmail.com or usa@cuamm.org 1. Casagrande. (2016, July 1). Our History | A long journey. Doctors with Africa CUAMM. https://doctorswithafrica.org/en/who-we-are/our-history/our-history-a-long-journey/ 2. Redazione_adm. (2023, February 2). JUST IN TIME | In Low Resource Settings. Doctors with Africa CUAMM. https://doctorswithafrica.org/en/whats-new/news/just-in-time-in-low-resource-settings/

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