Tanzania Episcopal Conference urges Diocesan Lay Leaders to be apostles on mission

The Tanzania Episcopal Conference (TEC) is holding a four-day formation seminar for approximately 230 lay council leaders from Catholic dioceses across the country. The seminar, organized through the TEC Pastoral Directorate, brings together diocesan leaders, national leaders, and representatives from apostolic associations to strengthen their understanding of their roles and responsibilities within the Church.

During the opening of the seminar, TEC Secretary General Father Charles Kitima told the leaders they serve as instruments to carry the mission of the Holy Father to local communities. He described the lay leaders as prophets and teachers of the Word of God who help proclaim the faith to both believers and non-believers. Father Kitima also encouraged the leaders to promote various vocations, including the priesthood, consecrated life, and Christian marriage, to support the growth of the Catholic faith in Tanzania.

The gathering occurs as the Church implements the Final Document of the Synod of Bishops, which calls for increased communion, participation, and mission.