VICTORIA, Seychelles — Bishop Alain Harel resignation has been officially announced, marking a significant moment for the Catholic Church in the archipelago. During a press conference held at the Domus last Saturday, Monsignor Alain Harel addressed journalists with gravity, serenity, and hope, outlining his decision to step down from his episcopal duties after reaching the canonical age of 75.
The Bishop’s resignation holds profound significance for the Seychellois community, many of whom have looked to spiritual leadership during times of social and political change. As the head of the Catholic Church in Seychelles, Bishop Harel has overseen numerous pastoral initiatives and guided the faithful through the challenges of modern life. His departure signals the end of an era and the beginning of a carefully managed succession process.
According to canonical law, a bishop must submit his letter of resignation to the Holy See upon reaching 75 years of age. Bishop Harel celebrated this milestone on June 24 last year and has now formalised his decision. He clarified that this is not a resignation from his spiritual mission but rather a relinquishment of administrative duties. “You do not resign from a mission received from Christ. You renounce an administrative charge entrusted by the Pope, but you remain a bishop forever,” he explained during the conference.
The Bishop’s tenure began on December 8, 2020, when he was officially appointed to the Seychelles diocese. His arrival coincided with the COVID-19 pandemic, presenting unprecedented challenges for pastoral care and community engagement. Despite these obstacles, he implemented numerous initiatives, including the “Ferme de l’Espoir” project to combat alcohol and drug addiction, and various educational programmes through Caritas. His leadership also prioritised the six outcomes of the diocesan synodal journey, focusing on family support, youth engagement, and creating welcoming church spaces.
The process of succession will involve extensive consultation with clergy, religious figures, and laypeople, followed by review by a committee of cardinals in Rome. The Pope will ultimately select the new bishop from two to four candidates. Bishop Harel has expressed his vision for the future, hoping for a younger successor who can bring fresh energy and a different approach to ministry. He emphasised the need for continued work on social cohesion and addressing the fractures within Seychellois society.
The Catholic Church in Seychelles now faces a period of transition, but the foundations laid during Bishop Harel’s tenure provide a stable platform for continued spiritual guidance and community service.
📷 Image source: Office of the President — statehouse.gov.sc
