KOUPÉLA — Metropolitan Archbishop Mgr Gabriel Sayaogo visited Notre Dame des Graces Parish in Koupéla on Monday, June 24, 2024, as a part of his ongoing tour of the diocese's parishes. The visit included a thanksgiving mass and a procession, aimed at connecting with the local Catholic community and assessing the parish's status and concerns.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the purpose of his parish tours is to gather insights directly from the faithful to prepare a comprehensive report for Pope Francis. "Every bishop is required to prepare a report every five years," he explained, noting that such reports must reflect the real experiences and challenges of the diocese's parishes. The Archbishop emphasized that his visits are crucial for understanding the difficulties faced by the faithful and for reinforcing their faith.

The parish's priest and also the vicar general of the archdiocese, Abbot François de Salle Kaboré, expressed gratitude for the Archbishop's visit, recognizing it as an honor for both the parish and the Diocese. He highlighted the Archbishop's efforts to engage with various community groups within the parish, including Christian communities, catechist bases (CCBs), and other movements, to better understand and immerse in their realities. Parishioner Kouraogo Edith also shared her joy, stating, "We are really happy to welcome him with us today. He celebrated mass for us and it strengthens our faith."

The visit concluded with the celebration of the catechists' patronal feasts, shared with the broader Catholic community of the parish, marking a day of spiritual significance and communal bonding in Koupéla.