Catholic leaders and faithful from Africa and the United States gathered in Washington, D.C., for a “Mass for Solidarity with the Bishops and Faithful of Africa,” celebrating the shared bonds of faith and fellowship across continents. The event took place on February 4, 2026, at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, and was organised jointly by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) and the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM).
Bishop David Malloy of Rockford, Illinois, served as the main celebrant, while Bishop Stephen Dami Mamza of the Diocese of Yola in Nigeria first vice president of SECAM delivered the homily. Representatives from both American and African bishops’ conferences were present, reflecting a spirit of mutual support and spiritual cooperation.
In his remarks, Bishop Mamza emphasized that the solidarity reflected in the Mass goes beyond politics or economics, rooted instead in common faith and shared mission within the global Catholic Church. Participants highlighted the importance of deepening ties between the Church in Africa and the U.S., especially amid ongoing challenges such as conflict, displacement, and threats to human dignity across parts of the African continent.
The event underscored the commitment of Catholic communities on both sides of the Atlantic to pray for one another, strengthen their spiritual connection, and work together in responding to pastoral and humanitarian needs.