By Sandra Kunda
Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops (ZCCB) has underscored the pivotal roles Small Christian Communities (SCCs) have played in fostering a more evangelized and evangelizing Church, recognizing a notable surge in membership and heightened participation of the laity.
In its pastoral exhortation to mark the celebration of the Golden Jubilee of Small Christian Communities in the Association of Member Episcopal Conferences in Eastern Africa (AMECEA) region (1973-2023) sent to the clergy, the religious and the laity in Zambia, ZCCB expresses gratitude as it reflects on the fifty (50) years of SCCs’ presence in the local Church as a distinctive way of being Church.
Highlighting the numerous benefits attributed to SCCs, ZCCB notes the provision of both human and financial resources to Parishes and Dioceses, enhanced participation of the People of God in the life and mission of the Church, and members’ active support of each other.
Furthermore, the Conference advocates for a critical evaluation of leadership styles within SCCs, emphasizing the need to facilitate participation, responsibility, and accountability.
Encouraging SCC leaders, ZCCB urges them to model their leadership after the example of Christ and support the full participation of every SCC member, as well as recognize the importance of every member.
In a commitment to furthering the life and mission of SCCs, members of the conference pledge to actively promote and impress upon Pastoral Offices the importance of ensuring that SCCs are well-organized and adequately supported.
SCCs are geographically demarcated groups where individuals gather to share the Word of God and life experiences as well as serve as the focal point where Christian relationships are enriched. The Catholic Church in Zambia has joined members in the AMECEA region to thank God for the jubilee celebration of SCCs. These celebrations are being held in all the eleven dioceses in Zambia.