Abidjan Archdiocese: What to Know About the 300 New Communities

The Archdiocese of Abidjan is calling for an end to the proliferation of New Communities, citing concerns about abuses, including groups becoming “spiritual shops” focused on money and the prosperity gospel. Any new community will now need the bishop’s explicit approval after consultation with the Presbyteral Council. The roughly 300 existing communities must re-register by December 31, 2026, or be removed from the list. The archbishop also urges priests to follow canon law and celebrate the Eucharist within the parish framework rather than in family homes or offices.