VATICAN CITY — Continuing his historic Apostolic Journey to Africa, Pope Leo XIV arrived in Angola on April 12, marking the third leg of a visit defined by love, peace, and hope.

From vibrant public welcomes to deeply personal encounters with the faithful, the Holy Father’s message remained clear: love must triumph over war, injustice, and division.

A Joyful Welcome in Angola

Nearly a week after departing Rome, Pope Leo XIV was greeted by lively crowds lining the streets of Angola, reflecting the deep faith and enthusiasm of the local Church.

As is customary, the Pope first addressed civil authorities, members of the diplomatic corps, and civil society leaders, urging them to use their positions responsibly to promote peace and stability in the nation.

A Marian Pilgrimage: Prayer at Mamã Muxima Shrine

One of the most significant moments of the visit came at the Marian Shrine of Mamã Muxima, one of Angola’s most important pilgrimage sites.

There, Pope Leo prayed the Rosary with tens of thousands of faithful, entrusting the nation to the care of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Addressing young people in particular, he challenged them to take up a mission of transformation:

“For the Mother of Heaven entrusts a great project to you as well: to build a better, welcoming world, where there is no more war, injustice, poverty or dishonesty. It is love that must triumph, not war!”

Serving the Vulnerable: A Visit to the Elderly

Beyond large public gatherings, the Pope also made time for quieter, deeply meaningful encounters. In the city of Saurimo, he visited elderly residents at a care home, emphasizing that the true measure of a nation lies in how it treats its most vulnerable.

This pastoral moment reflected a recurring theme of the journey: the dignity of every human person, especially those often forgotten.

Mass in Saurimo: Christ in Every Trial

Pope Leo XIV later celebrated Holy Mass in Saurimo, attended by approximately 60,000 people. In his homily, he offered words of consolation and encouragement to those facing hardship:

“In the face of these evils, Christ hears the cry of the people and renews our history by lifting us up from every fall, comforting us in every suffering and encouraging us in our mission.”

The message resonated strongly in a region where many continue to face economic and social challenges.

Equatorial Guinea: A Call to Proclaim the Gospel

The Holy Father’s journey continued in Equatorial Guinea, where he was received with the same enthusiasm and warmth.

During meetings with cultural leaders, healthcare workers, and the faithful, Pope Leo encouraged the Church to remain bold in its mission, recalling the legacy of early missionaries:

“Do not be afraid to proclaim the Gospel and bear witness to it with your lives! Be builders of a future of hope, peace and reconciliation, carrying on the work begun by the missionaries 170 years ago.

A Powerful Encounter at Bata Prison

One of the most moving moments of the visit took place at Bata Prison, where Pope Leo met inmates, staff, and prison ministry workers.

In a setting filled with music and emotion, he delivered a simple but profound message of dignity and mercy:

“Today, I am here to tell you something simple: no one is excluded from God’s love! Each of us, with our unique stories, mistakes and sufferings, remains precious in the Lord’s eyes.”

Youth, Joy, and Faith at Bata Stadium

At Bata Stadium, thousands gathered for one of the final events of the visit, marked by music, celebration, and vibrant expressions of faith.

Addressing young people and families, the Pope reflected on the visit’s theme and praised their witness:

“The brightest light here is the one that shines in your eyes, on your faces, in your smiles and through your songs and dances. Everything bears witness that Christ is the joy, meaning, inspiration and beauty of our lives.”

A Journey Marked by Faith, Hope, and Charity

As Pope Leo XIV concluded this stage of his African journey, he reflected on the profound impact of the people he encountered.

Despite the diverse realities across Angola and Equatorial Guinea, one constant remained: a living and enduring faith.

“I leave Africa with an immeasurable treasure of faith, hope and charity: a great treasure consisting of stories, faces and testimonies, both joyful and sorrowful, which will greatly enrich my life and ministry as the Successor of Peter.”

A Unified Message Across Africa

From Angola to Equatorial Guinea, Pope Leo XIV’s message has been consistent and clear: love, peace, and hope must guide the future.

In a world marked by division and uncertainty, his journey stands as a powerful reminder that faith endures—and through it, a more just and compassionate world can be built.

Adapted by Jacob Stein