Guinea-Bissau: Thousands of young people celebrate Catholic Youth Interdiocesan Day

Casimiro Jorge Cajucam – Bissau

Under the motto “Faith, Charity, and Hope,” the city of Bafatá experienced three days filled with spirituality, joy, and communion. Despite the extreme heat, which ranged between 42 and 43 degrees Celsius, the enthusiasm and vibrancy of the participants remained undiminished.

Activities began on Friday afternoon with welcome remarks and greeting to the young people by Bishop Vítor Quematcha of Bafatá, followed by a night of adoration before the Blessed Sacrament.

On Saturday morning, Bishop Quematcha delivered his catechesis to the young people and families of the Catholic faithful present. Later, Bishop José Lampra Cá of Bissau presided over the Eucharistic celebration.

Bishop Vítor Quematcha gave the Catechesis

Bishops, Nuncio visit prison

Before the Mass, inmates at the Bafatá Prison Centre received visits from several church authorities, including Bishop José Lampra Cá, Bishop José Câmnate na Bissiga (Emeritus Bishop of Bissau), and the Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Waldemar Stanislaw Sommertag, accompanied by several priests.

During the visit, prisoners received Jubilee-themed shirts and Youth Day items, as well as personal hygiene products. This initiative was meant to convey the Church’s closeness and solidarity, with the inmates.

The closing Mass, held on Sunday, was presided over by the Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Sommertag, with a homily delivered by Bishop Vítor Luís Quematcha. In his message, the bishop emphasised that “following Christ is not just a religious feeling but a life decision.” He added that, “in the Guinean context, this means choosing truth over lies, and justice over corruption.”

Apostolic Nuncio Waldemar Stanislaw Sommertag at the youth celebrations

The country needs its youth

Bishop Vítor Quematcha reminded the young people that “the Church trusts in them and that the country needs their commitment,” calling for courage and hope. He also greeted the families present, highlighting “their fundamental role as spaces for transmitting faith, love, and responsibility.”

The bishop further entrusted the Dioceses of Bafatá and Bissau— the latter preparing to celebrate its 50th anniversary next year—to the Good Shepherd.

At the farewell and final blessing, Bishop Emeritus of Bissau, José Câmnate na Bissign, urged young people and adolescents to take an active role in promoting reconciliation and peace in Guinea-Bissau.