Pope Leo made a powerful call for unity and peace during his visit to Angola, urging the nation to heal from the wounds of its long history of conflict. The events, which took place on Sunday, drew an estimated 130,000 people, marking a significant moment in the country’s recent history.
The first U.S.-born pope has been vocal about issues such as war and inequality, and his stance has sometimes put him at odds with political leaders. During his visit, he celebrated Mass in Kilamba, a large housing development outside Luanda, before traveling by helicopter to the Muxima Catholic shrine, a site that once played a dark role in the transatlantic slave trade.
At the Mass, Pope Leo described Angola as a “beautiful yet wounded country.” He emphasized the need for Angolans to work together to overcome past divisions and eliminate hatred and violence. His message resonated deeply with the crowd, many of whom had gathered early in the morning to witness the event.
The pope’s visit to the Muxima shrine was equally impactful. Located about 130 km southeast of the capital, near the Kwanza River, the site is now a popular religious destination. However, it was once part of a 16th-century Portuguese fortress that facilitated the capture of millions of Africans, including those from what is now Angola, for enslavement in the Americas.
Despite the historical significance of the location, the pope did not explicitly reference its past during his remarks. Instead, he called for a peaceful and just world, emphasizing that “love must triumph, not war.”
In addition to his messages of peace, the pope addressed the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He urged an end to hostilities and called for dialogue to resolve the crisis. He also expressed hope for the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, which ended fighting between Israeli forces and Iran-backed Hezbollah.
Believers began arriving at Kilamba before dawn, eager to hear the pope speak. Among them was Sister Christina Matende, who arrived around 6:00 a.m. She described the pope’s visit as a source of joy, noting that the country faces many challenges.
Angola, one of Africa’s leading oil producers, still struggles with extreme poverty. According to the World Bank, more than 30% of its population lives on less than $2.15 per day. Despite these challenges, over half of the country identifies as Catholic.
Key Moments from the Visit
- Call for Unity: The pope urged Angolans to overcome divisions and build a future free from hatred and violence.
- Focus on Peace: He emphasized the importance of love and peace, calling for an end to conflicts both in Angola and globally.
- Addressing Global Issues: The pope highlighted the need for dialogue and cooperation in resolving international conflicts, such as the war in Ukraine.
- Hope for the Future: Many locals saw the pope’s visit as a positive step toward healing and reflection on the country’s path forward.
Criticism of Leadership and Exploitation
During his trip, the pope also addressed the issue of leadership in African nations. In a speech to political leaders, he criticized the exploitation of natural resources and condemned “despots and tyrants” who prioritize wealth over the well-being of their people. He urged leaders to focus on serving all citizens rather than corporate interests.
His words were met with support from many in the audience. Anielka Caliata, a 25-year-old attendee, praised the pope’s strong voice on his Africa tour. She believed his message would help inspire the country to work together for peace and progress.
As the pope continued his four-nation Africa tour, his visit to Angola left a lasting impression on those who attended, offering hope and a renewed sense of purpose for the nation.
