CARITAS NIGERIA INPUT ON SYNOD ON THE FAMILY

In 2013, precisely May, 420 Nigerian youths were interviewed nationwide in a survey that had to do with the best world possible. 67% identified small businesses or self employment as their main source of livelihood. 74 % identified finance and corruption as single most important constraints to their progress in life. 44% believed that tackling corruption was the single most important action that needed to be taken while 91% believed an honest and responsive government is what is needed. This information is important because while many young men and women may be committed to settling down to build a family, one of the main constraints is economic. Custom and tradition put barriers which only economic opportunities could surmount. For instance in many countries of Africa there a sacramental wedding is preceded by an equally expensive traditional and customary wedding. This situation leaves many young people to marry late or engage in 'para-marriages' before the actual ceremonies years later, and in the meantime, they cease to be in full communion. Firstly Episcopal Conferences need to do more to dialogue with cultures in Africa to ensure they enhance sacramental wedlock. Greater efforts at unifying the traditional with the sacramental should be made, as already proposed by some episcopal conferences. Secondly Episcopal Conferences need to ensure Catholic marriages are protected by law. Catholic marriages need to be in accordance with the provisions of civil law, as already advised by the Code of Canon Law. Many priests are celebrating marriages that are not recognised by law.

Thirdly Episcopal Conferences need to strengthen marriage tribunals. In some African countries there is a belief by the laity that because priests are not affected, they allow cases to linger on end, whereas the attempt often is to safeguard the bond. The Metropolitan needs to monitor what goes on with the Tribunals in order to give a greater sense of belonging to the lay faithful.

Fr. Evaristus BasseyNational Director