Mouhoun: The Bishop of the Diocese of Dedougou, Bishop Prosper Bonaventure Ky, alongside his council, held a press conference in Dedougou to discuss the upcoming 25th anniversary celebrations of the diocese and the priestly ordination of five new priests. The celebrations, scheduled for Sunday, November 23, 2025, carry the theme: 'Church-Family of God in Dedougou, on jubilee journeys and following the example of Dii Alfred, be a leaven of communion and a witness to the mission of Christ.'
According to Burkina Information Agency, the Diocese of Dedougou was established on April 14, 2000, by Pope John Paul II during a significant period for Christianity. Bishop Ky emphasized that the jubilee is a time to reflect on the history, express gratitude, and explore new pastoral directions. He paid tribute to the early evangelists and local families who supported the church's development.
Bishop Ky highlighted the spiritual aspect of the jubilee, viewing it as an opportunity for conversion and gratitude. He noted the importance of renewal by the Spirit to advance the Church's mission. He also underscored the need to strengthen evangelization and human development efforts in social, educational, and pastoral domains.
The jubilee events include conferences on the anniversary's significance, a historical review of the diocese's growth, and discussions on future pastoral plans. The Vicar General indicated that these discussions would revisit key diocesan developments, including new parishes and social initiatives.
Plans for a new cathedral building and a resource mobilization strategy will be presented. Festive and charitable activities, such as a community day and donations to local structures, are part of the celebrations. A jubilee tree planting in the cathedral courtyard is also planned, with similar activities to follow in parishes.
Addressing security concerns, Bishop Ky assured collaboration with Defense and Security Forces and internal services to secure accommodation sites for parish delegations. He expressed hope for continued peace and commended the security forces' efforts.
The bishop also discussed insecurity's impact on pastoral life, including temporary parish closures and support for internally displaced persons. He mentioned the progress toward beatifying martyr catechist Alfred Diban, now in the Roman phase, as one of the country's most advanced causes.