In a gesture of ecclesial communion and missionary synodality, a virtual meeting was held between theExecutive Secretary of the Ecclesial Conference of the Amazon (CEAMA), Marcelo Lemos, and the Father Alexis Leproux, Episcopal Vicar for Mediterranean Relations of the Archbishopric of Marseille, representing theFrench Episcopal Conference.
The meeting, held on June 19, 2025, was also attended by Fernando Rueda, CEAMA communications officer, and Fr. Carlos (Fathers of Saint Sulpice), a CEAMA volunteer (who supported the Italian translation). It was a significant opportunity to strengthen bridges between ecclesial territories marked by common challenges: human mobility, cultural diversity, climate justice, and the formation of Christian communities in the geographical and existential peripheries.
During the dialogue, Father Alexis shared that the Mediterranean Churches are beginning a process of synodal articulation, marked by the complexity and richness of a region that includes multiple countries,religions,diverse languages, plural Christian expressions and various churches in communion with Rome. Currently, there is aMediterranean ecclesial coordination which seeks to integrate these realities into a horizon of pastoral collaboration.
The Vicar also highlighted some concrete actions already underway, like the accompaniment in refugee camps, working with youths and other territorial initiatives that are “taking steps” toward a more articulate and committed ecclesial presence.
From CEAMA, the experience of a decade of journey through REPAM, which led to the creation of an Amazonian ecclesial conference with a synodal and territorial identity. Marcelo Lemos highlighted the Meeting of Bishops of the Amazon, which will be held in August 2025, as a key moment for collective pastoral discernment in the region.
In this context, the Official confirmation, on June 30, of the participation of Father Alexis Leproux as a representative of the French Episcopal Conference at the Meeting of Amazonian Bishops. His presence will mark a concrete step towards collaboration between the Churches of the Mediterranean and the Amazon, expressing a common will to build a synodal, prophetic Church committed to the cries of the people.
This meeting opens horizons of dialogue, mutual learning and intercontinental cooperation in a pastoral key, encouraging a Church that goes out, co-responsible and attentive to the signs of the times.