Vatican city: Pope Leo XIV appealed on Sunday in the Vatican to Catholic believers around the world to intensify their prayers for his upcoming apostolic visit to Africa, beginning Monday, with stops in four countries, including Angola. In his homily at Mass on Sunday in St. Peter's Square, the Holy Father emphasized the spiritual importance of the trip to the African continent, marked by social challenges, but also by a living and growing faith.
According to Angola Press News Agency, the trip is part of the Supreme Pontiff's apostolic journeys, which aim to reinforce the Church's proximity to local communities, promote peace and encourage dialogue between peoples and cultures. During the visit, the Holy Father must hold meetings with political authorities, religious leaders and faithful, in addition to presiding over Eucharistic celebrations and moments of prayer in different countries.
Angola is among the stages on the papal agenda, with visits planned to Luanda, the Muxima Sanctuary and the city of Saurimo, places considered symbolic for their religious and social relevance. The Catholic Church in Angola is already mobilizing to welcome the Pope, holding masses, vigils and other spiritual initiatives in preparation for the event.
The Pope's visit to Africa is of particular significance, in a context in which the continent seeks to consolidate paths of development, social justice and peaceful coexistence between nations.
