Systematic Theology Department, CIWA, Port Harcourt

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, O.S.A., is an American prelate of the Catholic Church who currently serves as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops—one of the most influential roles in the Vatican. Here's a concise overview of his background, early days, and ministry:

Early Life and Formation:

Born: September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, USA.

He is of American nationality and has Peruvian and Latin American connections through his missionary work.

He joined the Order of Saint Augustine (O.S.A.), a mendicant order in the Catholic Church, known for its emphasis on community life and service.

He studied in Rome, earning degrees in theology and canon law, and was ordained a priest in 1982.

Ministry and Missionary Work:

1980s–2000s: He spent much of his early priesthood in Peru as a missionary.

He worked in Chulucanas, a poor and rural diocese in northern Peru.

Prevost held key roles in the Augustinian community there and was known for his pastoral work, formation of seminarians, and advocacy for the poor.

2001–2013: He served as Prior General of the Augustinian Order (Rome), overseeing their global operations. He was elected twice, showing strong support from the order worldwide.

2014: Pope Francis appointed him as Apostolic Administrator and then Bishop of Chiclayo, Peru—a sign of his continued deep connection with the country.

Service in the Vatican:

2023: Pope Francis appointed him as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, succeeding Cardinal Marc Ouellet.

This office is responsible for selecting and overseeing bishops worldwide, making him a key figure in shaping the episcopate under Francis' reform-minded pontificate.

He was made a Cardinal in September 2023.

Notable Traits and Focus:

Prevost is known for:

A pastoral and missionary mindset.

Emphasis on synodality, humility, and listening—core themes in Pope Francis' vision.

Experience both in the Global South and in the administrative heart of the Church.

HOLY THURSDAY: MYSTERIUM FIDEI
Celebrating the Institution of the Eucharist and the Ministerial Priesthood

Today, on Holy Thursday, the Church enters into the heart of the Paschal Mystery—the evening when Christ, out of love, gave us the gift of Himself in the Most Holy Eucharist and instituted the ministerial priesthood to perpetuate this gift throughout time.

In the words of Pope St. John Paul II:
"The Church draws her life from the Eucharist. The Eucharist, in its turn, gives rise to the priesthood. The two sacraments were born together, and their destiny is interwoven." (Ecclesia de Eucharistia, 31)

As the Systematic Theology Department at CIWA, comprising professors, lecturers, priests, and students, we pause in awe of this divine mystery. We reflect on the theological and ecclesiological depth of this day: that the Eucharist is both fons et culmen—the source and summit of our Christian life—and the priesthood is the chosen vessel through which this sacred mystery is dispensed to the People of God.

We express our profound gratitude to all Catholic priests, especially those dedicated to theological formation and education. Your “yes” to the call of Christ sustains the Church in knowledge, holiness, and grace.

May the Lord of the Harvest bless our priests with fidelity, humility, and joy.
May we, as students of theology, respond with generous hearts to the demands of the Gospel and the sacred science we are privileged to study.

Ad multos annos!
Happy Feast of the Priesthood!

Day 4 | 34th Theology Conference Week
Thursday, 10th April 2025
Theme Highlight: Quantum-AI for Understanding Divine Revelation

Today’s plenary session was a powerful blend of science and spirituality as participants explored the paper titled “Quantum-AI for Understanding Divine Revelation.” This groundbreaking discourse was presented by Rt. Rev. Msgr Michael Ekpenyog and Engr. Dr. Paul Edet Okon, with thoughtful moderation by Rev. Fr. Dr. Samuel P. Gwimi.

The session sparked deep reflections and engaging discussions during the interactive segment, opening minds to the harmony between cutting-edge technology and age-old truths of our faith.

The day was beautifully rounded off with Holy Mass, followed by lunch and departure.

Gratitude to all functionaries and participants for making today another memorable milestone in this spiritual and intellectual journey.

[Attached here are Photos of speakers, moderator, and attendees.

DAY TWO OF CIWA THEOLOGY CONFERENCE WEEK: A CALL TO FAITH, JUSTICE, AND RECONCILIATION

The second day of the Theology Conference Week at the Catholic Institute of West Africa (CIWA), Port Harcourt, held on 8/04/2025 , featured powerful theological reflections, academic presentations, and engaging panel discussions.

Centered on the theme “Theology in a Wounded World: Faith, Justice, and Reconciliation,” the day opened with a keynote address that explored the Church’s role in healing the wounds of society and promoting peace. Scholars and participants reflected on the challenges facing the African Church and the urgency of theological responses rooted in justice, synodality, and hope.

Academic sessions saw rich presentations from priests, religious, and theologians on key topics such as inculturation, African identity, and youth engagement in the faith. A vibrant panel discussion on “Reconciliation and the Mission of the Church in Africa” drew thoughtful contributions from clergy, academics, and students alike.

The day was further enriched by creative theological expressions—highlighting the dynamism of the CIWA community. The day ended on a solemn note with an evening theological reflection and vespers.

The Conference Week continues with more sessions aimed at deepening theological inquiry and inspiring transformative action in the Church and society.

CIWA THEOLOGICAL WEEK 2025 OPENS WITH THREE BISHOPS IN ATTENDANCE

Port Harcourt, April 7, 2025 — The Catholic Institute of West Africa (CIWA) formally opened its 2025 Theological Week with a solemn Mass, graced by three distinguished prelates: Most Rev. Camillus Raymond Umoh, Bishop of Ikot Ekpene; Most Rev. Christopher Naseri-Mutiti, Auxiliary Bishop of Calabar; and Most Rev. Patrick Eluke, Auxiliary Bishop of Port Harcourt.

The Opening Mass, held at the CIWA Chapel, drew a large congregation that included priests, religious, seminarians, students, faculty, and invited guests, setting a reflective and prayerful tone for the week ahead.

In his homily, Bishop Camillus Umoh highlighted the dynamic role of theology in addressing contemporary challenges while nurturing the spiritual life of the Church. He called on theologians and students alike to embrace a spirit of inquiry and devotion throughout the week.

Auxiliary Bishop Christopher Naseri-Mutiti of Calabar praised CIWA for its commitment to fostering theological education in the region, encouraging the community to engage deeply with the rich tradition of the Church. Meanwhile, Auxiliary Bishop Patrick Eluke of Port Harcourt expressed his delight in welcoming the theological community to the diocese and urged all participants to allow the sacred experiences of the week to influence their ministry and daily lives.

This year’s Theological Week continues to offer a range of lectures and interactive sessions focused on the theme: “Faith, Culture, and Transformation in a Contemporary World.” CIWA remains dedicated to being a center of theological reflection and academic excellence in West Africa.

Photo Gallery
* Wide shot of the CIWA Chapel during the Opening Mass
* The three bishops and the Rector together
* Bishop Camillus Umoh delivering his homily
* Auxiliary Bishop Patrick Eluke interacting with the congregation.
* Group photo of participants capturing a candid moment from the event

THEOLOGY MEETS TECHNOLOGY!
The Catholic Institute of West Africa (CIWA), Port Harcourt, proudly presents her 34th Annual Theological Conference — a global gathering of minds, hearts, and hopes.

Theme:
“Theology, Artificial Intelligence, and Hope for Humanity”

In an age of rapid technological advancement, what role does faith play? Can artificial intelligence be a tool of hope? Join us as scholars, theologians, and truth seekers engage in meaningful dialogue on the future of humanity.

Date: Monday, April 7th – Friday, April 11th, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM daily
Venue: Catholic Institute of West Africa (CIWA), Port Harcourt

Keynote Speakers:

Most Rev. Christopher Naseri – Auxiliary Bishop of Calabar

Rev. Fr. Dr. Michael Umoh – National Director of Social Communications

Host:

Very Rev. Fr. Prof. Jude Asanbe, Rector, CIWA

Organizing Chairman:

Rev. Fr. Dr. Paul Jatua

Chief Hosts:

The Catholic Bishops of Port Harcourt and Aba

The Sole Administrator of Rivers State

This is more than a conference – it’s a moment of reflection, revelation, and revival.

CIWA invites you. The world is watching. The Church is thinking. Be there.