Pope Francis recently spoke about his 40th Apostolic Journey to Africa, where he visited the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan. During the General Audience on February 8, the Pope focused his catechesis on the significance of his trip, which he described as fulfilling two dreams: to visit the Congolese and South Sudanese people and to promote peace in the region.

Pope Francis emphasized the importance of peace, recalling his meetings with victims of violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo, who shared “shocking testimonies” with him. He also addressed the youth of the country, encouraging them to follow five paths: prayer, community, honesty, forgiveness, and service. During his visit to Kinshasa, Pope Francis also met with priests, deacons, and seminarians, urging them to overcome the temptations of spiritual mediocrity, worldly comfort, and superficiality.

Regarding the situation in South Sudan, Pope Francis expressed disappointment that the process of reconciliation has not advanced and that the country continues to suffer from war, violence, and displacement. He also spoke out against those who abuse the name of God to justify violence and abuses and criticized the delivery of weapons to the region by “civilized” countries.

Finally, Pope Francis emphasized God’s hope in the small and humble, not the powerful, and invited all to pray for seeds of love, justice, and peace to sprout in Africa.