Africa-Press – Angola. The minister of Culture, Filipe Zau, reaffirmed on Saturday (21) in Luanda the Angolan Government’s commitment to promoting social cohesion and valuing cultural heritage, with a view to preserving national identity and collective memory.
Speaking at an ecumenical service commemorating the 49th anniversary of the Council of Christian Churches in Angola (CICA), to be celebrated on the 24th of the current month, the minister also reiterated the authorities’ commitment to valuing the spiritual heritage of communities.
In this regard, he highlighted the partnership of religious denominations in promoting social peace, reconciliation, solidarity, education for social values, as well as care for others and community stability.
On the other hand, Filipe Zau highlighted the CICA’s territorial expansion, represented in all 21 provinces of the country, and the existence of ecumenical centers with a formative, cultural and developmental vocation, with emphasis on the structures in Luanda, Benguela and Huambo, with a vision of community service and capacity building.
He encouraged CICA to continue strengthening the culture of ecumenical and inter-institutional dialogue as an instrument for conflict prevention and peace promotion.
This action, he continued, is crucial for families, young people and vulnerable groups, contributing to a more integrated, supportive society that respects the common good.
Regarding the 49th anniversary of the Council of Christian Churches, Filipe Zau noted that it reinforces hope, unity and commitment to the common good.
On the occasion, the bishop of the Anglican Church of Mozambique and Angola, Filomena Teta, emphasized the importance of unity among churches and the strengthening of Christian fraternity as pillars for building a farier, supportive and peaceful society.
The religious leader stressed that division weakens the witness of the gospel, while unity strengthens the mission of the church in a context marked by social and spiritual challenges.
In turn, the CICA Secretary-General, Vladimir Agostinho, underlined that, over almost 5 decades, the organization has been playing a relevant role in promoting inter-denominational cooperation, justice, peace and reconciliation.
The role of CICA is also present through social actions in the areas of community health, theological education and assistance to vulnerable populations.
Under the motto “United in diversity, let us live biblical brotherhood,” the service, which was attended by religious leaders and members of the Government, culminated with tributes to the pioneers of the Council of Christian Churches in Angola.
The Council was founded on Feb 24, 1977, initially called the Angolan Council of Evangelical Churches (CAIE), the institution emerged to promote cooperation among Christian churches and the population’s well-being.
