Pastors Gather in São Tomé and Príncipe to Address Family and Youth Challenges

Written by UPF-Africa

Friday, October 25, 2024

São Tomé and Príncipe ― On September 12, 2024, a gathering of church leaders in São Tomé and Príncipe took place intending to establish the Interreligious Association for Peace and Development (IAPD) in the nation. The event focused on two pressing issues: the collapse of family values and the dangers facing youth. The gathering, hosted in a welcoming, family-like environment, brought together leaders for in-depth discussions and reflections on these critical topics.

After sharing a fraternal meal, the pastors engaged in a thoughtful analysis of these challenges. On the topic of family values, they observed that families are struggling, lacking a moral foundation. They emphasized the need for families—and religious communities—to return to God as a way to restore values and strengthen the family as the core unit of society.

Concerning youth issues, all attendees agreed that young people in São Tomé face serious challenges, including exposure to drugs, alcohol, and negative influences. They expressed concerns about adopting Western customs that conflict with their values, such as avoiding disciplinary measures out of fear and promoting material solutions over moral education. The pastors strongly endorsed UPF’s initiative to introduce character education in schools, seeing it as an essential step in providing moral guidance to young people.

Rev. Jean-Pierre Kadima, Regional President of Shinafrica, concluded the discussions by urging the group to understand the root causes of these issues through God’s original plan for humanity.

Key Outcomes:

• Formation of a Commission: A commission will draft a letter to the government addressing societal behaviors and recommending specific solutions.
• Radio Program Proposal: Plans were made to develop a joint radio program focused on moral education.
• National Collaboration: The pastors committed to gathering on a national level to draft the government letter and discuss their roles within UPF.

The event was attended by 11 pastors, as well as distinguished guests, including Dr. Koji Matsuda, International President of IAYSP; Rev. Jean-Pierre Kadima, Regional President of Shinafrica; Rev. Steve Sakuwa, Director of Spirituality for West and Central Africa; Rev. Michel Futila, President of FFWPU in São Tomé and Príncipe; and Melissa Pina, a renowned national singer.