From 18 to 21 April 2026, Pope Leo XIV visited Angola as part of his first pastoral journey to the African continent—an itinerary that also included Algeria, Cameroon, and Equatorial Guinea—since his election on 8 May 2025, following the death of Pope Francis on 21 April 2025.
The first North American Pope, who previously served as an Augustinian missionary in Peru and later in several countries around the world, showed deep familiarity with the realities of the places he visited. His words offered encouragement, hope, and a vision of a Church that lives the joy of the Gospel, even amid many challenges.
During his visit, Pope Leo XIV also spoke with clarity about the dangers of “false joys”—those built on the exploitation of others—and about the forces that continue to plunder the African continent, treating it as a source of riches without contributing to the well‑being of its people.
He urged all to awaken from complacency, refusing to become passive spectators of history. Instead, he called for the building of strong nations founded on justice and peace, where every person can flourish.
Addressing bishops, priests, and men and women religious, Pope Leo XIV expressed joy at the growth of the Church and the increase in vocations. Yet he reminded them that the true sign of a mature Church is not the number of vocations, but the fidelity of consecrated persons, their conformity to Christ, and their missionary openness, so that they may be authentic signs and instruments of God’s love.
The Pope’s visit to Africa appears to mark a significant moment in his pontificate, highlighting priorities such as social justice, mission, solidarity, and the sharing of missionary personnel to renew and strengthen communities in need of fresh energy.
As a Spiritan, it was a joy to help coordinate the Pope’s visit to Angola. Among those who greeted him at the conclusion of the meeting with missionaries was Father Bernard Duchene, CSSp, who is celebrating 50 years of missionary service in Angola.
The Pope’s visit has come to an end, but the strength of his message remains, as does the memory of his simplicity and closeness to the people.
My hope is that we will not have to wait another seventeen years for the next papal visit.
+ Belmiro Cuica Chissengueti, CSSp. Bishop of Cabinda
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