On April 7, the Extraordinary Regional Conference of Cáritas Latin America and the Caribbean was held virtually, marking an important milestone in strengthening the joint action of the network in the region.

The conference was chaired by Monsignor Gustavo Rodrígues Vega, archbishop of Yucatán and president of Cáritas LAC, who began the session by making the roll call of all the presiding bishops and national directors. During the day, representatives of member organizations actively participated in the discussion and approval of two crucial points for the future of the regional confederation.

Institutional strengthening to serve better

The first item on the agenda was the approval of the new legal document of the Latin American and Caribbean Secretariat of Cáritas (SELACC). This decision was made unanimously, since the new legal structure will allow SELACC to operate with greater efficiency and a solid legal basis. This institutional strengthening will boost support for national Caritas, facilitating the implementation of programs and projects at the regional level with an even greater impact.

After a productive exchange of ideas by the participants, with the clarification contribution of the legal advisor of the Episcopal Conference of Costa Rica, a fundamental consensus was achieved that led to the approval of the continuity of the process of opening the legal ID, with the due adjustments.

Sustainability for the mission

Another central point was the approval of a pilot methodology for the definition of the statutory quotas, which They are financial contributions from each National Caritas member to the Caritas Confederation. This contribution allows the organization, dynamization and coordination actions necessary for the functioning of an international network with more than 160 members.

This new system considers both the contribution that corresponds to Latin America and the Caribbean within the confederation, and the specific economic reality of each national Caritas, establishing for this a minimum value and a maximum value of contribution. After a process of discussion, the new proposal for statutory quotas was approved by the majority of the members.

Exercise of synodality

"This Extraordinary Regional Conference has been a very positive exercise of synodality for Caritas Latin America and the Caribbean, a journey together essential for our mission," stated the Regional Coordinator, Nicolás Meyer. "We have addressed delicate issues that require everyone's understanding, but the decisions taken today express our firm commitment to continue our work."

Monsignor Gustavo concluded the meeting by inviting everyone present to pray for peace and giving them his blessing.