At the final Mass of the recent Apostolic Journey Pope Leo stood in prayer before the image of Our Lady of Bisila while the Regina Coeli was sung. Our Lady of Bisila, in white and blue with the Child Jesus carried in traditional African style, represents to the people of Equatorial Guinea deep faith and devotion. Her name in the Fang language, the most widely used indigenous language in Equatorial Guinea, means "compassion".
The devotion, dates from before Christian contact to a mythical figure who restored a dying people to health and fertility and ensured their protection. In the traditional culture she occupied the role of 'great mother'. The first image of the Our Lady of Bisila was carved in 1968, on the eve of the country’s independence. Elements were chosen explicitly tied to the culture: scarifications, a traditional bracelet and the Christ Child not presented frontally but carried on Mary's back.
The term 'inculturation' gained prominence in the 20th century, especially after the Second Vatican Council but the principle is ancient: the Gospel enters every culture to transform it from within, while remaining faithful to Christ. Elements of the culture remain, but are incorporated into the Gospel message.
Our Lady of Bisila reflects a sense of closeness, portraying Mary as a figure walking with her people through life’s challenges and hopes. The month of May is a month traditionally devoted to Mary. May Mary, Queen of all Creation, intercede for our world today walking with us in our broken world.
Denise, smsm
