{"id":14546,"date":"2026-04-23T13:22:23","date_gmt":"2026-04-23T11:22:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.olcgs.org\/?p=14546"},"modified":"2026-05-01T14:16:23","modified_gmt":"2026-05-01T12:16:23","slug":"pope-leo-xivs-apostolic-visit-to-angola","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.olcgs.org\/fr\/pope-leo-xivs-apostolic-visit-to-angola\/","title":{"rendered":"Pilgrims of Hope: Pope Leo XIV\u2019s Apostolic Visit to Angola"},"content":{"rendered":"

Edited from an article submitted by Sr. Luzia Kibonga, Communications Coordinator, Angola (Sector of Angola \/ Mozambique)<\/em><\/p>\n

Embracing his theme as \u2018pilgrims of hope, reconciliation, and peace\u2019<\/em>, le pape L\u00e9on XIV<\/strong>, in his recent apostolic visit of to<\/strong> Angola<\/strong>\u00a0(April 18\u201321, 2026), shared a message that resonated deeply with the Angolan people. From his first meeting with civil authorities and the diplomatic corps, he expressed unwavering solidarity with those experiencing suffering, particularly the victims of the devastating April 2026 floods in the Benguela province. His prayerful presence reflected the heart of a compassionate pastor, closely mirroring the reconciling presence of Jesus the Good Shepherd<\/strong> that we strive to embody in our daily mission.<\/p>\n

The Holy Father issued a firm call for justice \u00e9conomique<\/strong>, denouncing systemic social inequalities and urging a fair distribution of the nation’s wealth. He challenged leaders to prioritize the common good and place the most impoverished citizens at the center of their decisions. For us, Good Shepherd sisters and partners-in-mission, his words were a validation of our commitment to transform the lives of those living in vulnerable situations. In the peripheral communities of Luanda<\/strong> and the rural villages of Kwanza Norte<\/strong>, our Good Shepherd communities and projects witness firsthand the struggles of girls, women, and children facing poverty, violence, and exclusion. The Pope\u2019s plea for a more just and humane society fuels our ongoing efforts to provide teaching, education, healthcare, vocational training, safe shelter, spiritual and pastoral guidance, and comprehensive support and assistance to families.<\/p>\n

During his pastoral engagements, including the Eucharistic celebration in Kilamba, the Pope offered a catechesis of hope to both Catholics and those of other faiths or none. Drawing on the story of the disciples of Emmaus, he reminded us that Christ walks with the Angolan people through the wounds of history, inviting everyone to become broken bread for others through solidarity and love.<\/p>\n

At the Shrine of Muxima, the Pope prayed the rosary and encouraged the youth to be agents of justice. His recitation in Kimbundu, “Mama Muxima, tueza koku\u00e9<\/em>,” from the hymn to Our Lady of Muxima, Angola\u2019s patroness, showed his efforts to connect with the people. Furthermore, his visit to the home for the elderly in Saurimo highlighted the inherent worth of the most fragile among us, echoing our congregation’s vow to cherish every individual’s unique value.<\/p>\n

For the Good Shepherd family in the Sector of Angola and Mozambique\u2014our sisters, novices, partners-in-mission, program participants, and associates\u2014this historic visit was an invitation to heal the wounds of the past, kindle hope in the present, and build a future rooted in justice, peace, and human rights. Inspired by the creative audacity of Saint Mary Euphrasia<\/strong> et compassionate zeal of Saint John Eudes<\/strong>, we are called to expand our horizons. We cannot remain indifferent to the enduring consequences of war, the disparities that leave women and children marginalized, or the systemic injustices that threaten human dignity.<\/p>\n