Pope Leo XIV marked the seventh day of his Apostolic Journey to Africa with a powerful and deeply pastoral message of renewal, reconciliation, and compassionate love during his visit to Angola. The day was highlighted by two major events: the celebration of Holy Mass in Kilamba and a Marian prayer gathering at the revered Shrine of Mamã Muxima, both drawing tens of thousands of faithful despite intense heat and long travel distances.
During the Mass, the Pope reflected on Angola’s complex and often painful history, likening it to the sorrowful journey of the disciples on the road to Emmaus. He described the nation as “beautiful yet wounded,” acknowledging scars left by years of civil war, poverty, and social division. However, he stressed that these wounds do not define Angola’s future, urging people to “begin anew” by trusting in God and choosing reconciliation, unity, and peace.
Later, at the Shrine of Mamã Muxima—one of Angola’s most important Marian pilgrimage sites—Pope Leo joined vast crowds in praying the Rosary. In a moment of profound devotion, he emphasized the transformative power of prayer, insisting that authentic faith must lead to concrete acts of love. He called on the faithful to care for others “with a mother’s heart,” showing tenderness, generosity, and concern for the poor and marginalized.
Addressing young people, the Pope challenged them to build a new Angola free from violence, injustice, and corruption. He urged them to reject despair, embrace hope, and act with courage. Concluding his message, Pope Leo reaffirmed that love, rooted in Christ, must triumph over division and guide society toward dignity, healing, and harmony.