Multitudes of Beninese travel to Côte d'Ivoire for pilgrimage
Beninese Pilgrims Embark on Spiritual Journey to Yamoussoukro
Hundreds of Catholic faithful from Benin recently embarked on a pilgrimage to Yamoussoukro, Côte d'Ivoire, marking a significant spiritual event in the region. The journey, which took place from July 30 to August 3, 2025, was a response to Pope Francis' call for deeper Christian witness and unity [1].
The pilgrimage, the first of its kind, attracted over 700 participants who engaged in fervent worship, adoration, and received edifying teachings, culminating in a closing Mass at the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace in Yamoussoukro [1].
The main objectives of this pilgrimage were to foster spiritual renewal, deepen the faith of participants, encourage them to become living witnesses of Christ, and reinforce a sense of community among the faithful from Benin [1]. The event also aimed to celebrate together in a setting of joy and religious fervor, strengthening ties between the Beninese Church and broader West African Catholicism.
Christiane Tabelé Omichessan, president of the Catholic women of the Benin diocese, stated that the pilgrimage was primarily to pray for peace everywhere [1]. The visit was also an opportunity to meditate on the Word of God to shape actions against political dictatorships, religious wanderings, and deadly ideologies [1].
Bishop Bernard de Clairvaux Toha, president of the episcopal commission in charge of missions and pilgrimages within the Ceb, confirmed the pilgrimage's connection to Pope Francis' call [1]. Bishop Joseph Aka, the ordinary of the place, highlighted the synodal scope of the visit [1].
The closing Mass homily, delivered by Bishop Bernard Clervoto of Djugou (Benin), specifically called on pilgrims to take the experience back into their homes and parishes, emphasizing ongoing missionary witness beyond the pilgrimage itself [1].
The basilica of Our Lady of Peace, a significant Catholic landmark, was a focus of the pilgrimage for many Beninese pilgrims [1]. The visit was also a happy coincidence with Benin's national holiday, marking the country's 65th anniversary of independence [1].
Modeste Kpodehoto, a faithful from the diocese of Djougou, expressed joy and gratitude towards the Lord for the visit, and the pilgrimage contributed to strengthening his peace of heart [1]. Joel Tohio Adoko, a teacher from Benin, prayed for the cessation of terrorist attacks in the department of Alibori [1].
Bishop François Gnonhossou, bishop of Dassa-Zoumé, highlighted that Benin's independence remains verbal and its institutions are still subtly controlled [1]. He also noted the choices of leaders in Benin weigh heavily on the people [1].
This pilgrimage thus represents both a profound spiritual encounter inspired by the Pope's call and a regional effort to strengthen faith, unity, and witness among Catholics in Benin and neighboring countries. The event serves as a testament to the power of faith and unity in fostering spiritual renewal and deepening the faith of believers.
[1] Source: Unnamed
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The pilgrimage, with its synodal scope, extended beyond spiritual renewal and unity, serving as a platform for Beninese faithful to discuss political issues, including the need for an end to religious wanderings, political dictatorships, and terrorist attacks. The event underscored the importance of missionary witness, encouraging participants to carry their newfound faith and values back to their homes and parishes. The visit coincided not only with the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, a significant Catholic landmark, but also with Benin's 65th anniversary of independence, a celebration that was deeply felt by the pilgrims.
