“Hope Amid the Cry”: Archbishop Jason Gordon Reflects on CELAM’s 70th Anniversary
As the Episcopal Conference for Lantin America and the Caribbean (CELAM) celebrated its 70th anniversary, Church leaders from around the globe gathered in a powerful expression of synodality and unity. Among them was Archbishop Charles Jason Gordon, President of the Antilles Episcopal Conference (AEC), who offered a moving reflection on the week-long gathering.
“We came from all over the world,” Archbishop Gordon began, “from Asia, Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean, North America, and Canada—to celebrate 70 years of CELAM.”
During the opening session, the General Secretaries and Presidents of the Episcopal Conferences were each given three minutes to share from their context. What emerged was a chorus of voices expressing urgent concerns: a cry from the earth, a cry against the escalating violence across nations, and a cry of frustration in the face of deep corruption. In many regions, the Archbishop noted, crime and instability have rendered parts of society nearly ungovernable.
Yet, his message was not one of despair, but of Christian hope. “We heard other things too,” he shared. “We heard of hope—because we believe in the resurrected Jesus Christ… although we face the tomb that seems to be empty, we know that the resurrected Lord is Lord of history and of all times.”
The gathering offered an opportunity to examine CELAM’s ongoing work across its commissions, particularly in the biblical, pastoral, and educational fields. Conversations also focused on fostering integral development for people and communities throughout the region.
Table fellowship throughout the week brought together bishops and clergy from across continents, including enriching encounters with Haitian representatives. “We dialogued about what we, as Antillean people, can do for Haiti,” Archbishop Gordon said, “and how we can enter into deeper solidarity.”
The celebration was also a moment to recognize CELAM’s historical influence. “Remember,” he reminded listeners, “CELAM has produced two popes—Pope Francis and Pope Leo. We are celebrating something truly magnificent.”
Reflecting on the dark times facing many communities, Archbishop Gordon closed with a powerful reminder: “The times may be dark, but the brightness of God’s resurrected love always shines brighter than the darkness of our times.”
As the anniversary drew to a close, Archbishop Gordon called on the faithful: “Pray for us. Pray for your bishops. Pray for your bishops of Latin America and the Caribbean. God bless.”
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