An opening sheltered by Shechem
Friday, May 1, 2026 marked the official opening of the first International Conference of the Human Promotion Commission of CHARIS, at the Sichem Center of Fondacio, in Kpomé-Dzogblakopé (Togo).
In this place deeply marked by a vision of integral ecology and human transformation, more than 160 participants from fifteen countries — from Africa, Europe, Asia and the Americas — gathered to experience a powerful time of communion, discernment and commitment.
From the very first hours, something became apparent: a Church in motion, rooted in reality, but turned towards hope.
An inaugural celebration under the sign of communion
The day began with an opening mass presided over by Bishop Isaac Jogues Kodjo A. Gaglo, Archbishop of Lomé and Diocesan Administrator.
Led by the National Choir of the National Communion Service, the liturgy created an atmosphere of fervor and unity. The welcoming of the international delegations made visible the universality of the Church, gathered on Togolese soil around a shared calling. In his homily and opening remarks, Bishop Gaglo invited everyone to open their eyes to the realities of the world:
"Everything is connected: the ecological crisis, social injustices, and our relationship with God."
A clear call for an embodied faith, capable of responding to contemporary challenges.
A demanding message, driven by a shared vision
The coordinator of the National Service of Communion CHARIS-Togo, Léonce Banka, then introduced the theme of the conference by recalling the urgency of a global conversion:
"The cry of the earth and the cry of the poor can no longer wait."
In this context, Pope Francis' encyclical Laudato Si' was at the heart of the day's first teaching, presented by François Prouteau, coordinator of CHARIS's Human Development Commission. It was a powerful message, calling for both inner and collective transformation.
Fondacio fully committed to the heart of the meeting
This conference's strong foundation is also due to Fondacio's concrete commitment at several levels. The choice of the Sichem Centre as the venue was not insignificant: for over 30 years, it has embodied a vibrant vision of integral ecology, where education, agroecology, and human transformation converge. Several Fondacio members contributed to the discussions:
- Kathleen Deckmyn, co-president of Fondacio
- Jérôme Tozé, co-president of Fondacio (moderation)
- as well as stakeholders committed to working alongside Sichem in this transformation dynamic
Their presence is not merely an institutional representation. It testifies to a profound commitment: that of linking faith, ecology and human development in concrete actions.
“Hosts and guardians of Creation”: a call to responsibility
The afternoon was marked by an international panel discussion on the theme: "Together, hosts and guardians of Creation"
With :
- Antoine Kodzo Dzamah, president of Sichem
- Kathleen Deckmyn, co-president of Fondacio
- Professor Agbati Koffigan, Togolese academic
The discussions highlighted a strong conviction: humankind does not own creation, but is responsible for its preservation. This led to group work, where each delegation shared its initiatives in the areas of human development and integral ecology.
A dynamic already underway
At the end of this first day, the participants leave feeling nourished, challenged, but above all, set in motion.
Something has been set in motion. A dynamic that transcends words and calls for concrete commitments. In a world beset by multiple crises, this encounter recalls an essential truth: faith, when it is embodied, can become a force for transformation.
Towards the next step: to delve deeper and take action
The conference continues with a second day focused on:
- the ecological conversion
- international testimonies
- and evangelization in Lomé
With a shared conviction: change is possible when women and men choose to commit to working together.
