On the second day of his Apostolic journey to the Democratic Republic of Congo, Pope Francis celebrated Mass. Addressing more than 1 million people gathered at the N’Dolo Airport, the Holy Father’s homily began by expressing his joy to finally be in the Democratic Republic of Congo. 

The Pope urged the faithful “to lay down their arms, embrace mercy and be missionaries of peace.” The night before the Pope arrived, thousands spent the night at the airport, praying and seeking reconciliation. 

The Catholic Church provides most of the healthcare and education in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Pope Francis is the second Pope to visit the country. The Pope’s motto for the trip is “All reconcile in Jesus Christ.” Elias Turk, ACI Mena Vatican Editor, has more.