Photo ©: Vatican Media

(ANS – Saurimo) – On Monday, April 20, 2026, during the eighth day of his apostolic journey in Africa, Pope Leo XIV spent a significant part of his visit in Saurimo, the capital of Angola’s Lunda Sul province. Though brief, the visit was meaningful, bringing attention and dignity to a region rich in diamonds yet marked by extreme poverty.

Warm Welcome in a Humble Setting

The Holy Father arrived at 9:16 a.m. local time, where he was welcomed by enthusiastic children and adults waving white handkerchiefs and raising their arms amid modest homes and huts separated by dusty, unpaved roads.

Visit to the Elderly: Listening Before Assisting

His first stop was a care home for the elderly, a government-funded facility housing around 60 men and women—many of whom are sick, abandoned, or mistreated, and sometimes even accused of witchcraft. The Pope spent nearly an hour there, greeting each person, listening to their stories, and witnessing songs and dances.

“The elderly should not only be cared for, but above all listened to, because they preserve the wisdom of a people,” he said—words received with emotion and gratitude by residents and staff.

He added: “I like to think that Jesus also dwells here, in this house. Yes, He lives among you whenever you strive to love and help one another as brothers and sisters.”

Addressing Angolan authorities, he emphasized: “Care for the vulnerable is a very important sign of a country’s quality of life.”

Prayer and Journey to the Mass Celebration

After leaving the residence on the outskirts, the Pope traveled by popemobile to the open area prepared for Mass, making a brief stop at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption for prayer and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.

A Great Gathering of the Faithful

Upon arrival, songs and applause filled the air, growing louder as Pope Leo XIV greeted the faithful, many of whom were sheltered under umbrellas. Around 40,000 people gathered for the celebration, with an additional 20,000 outside the designated area.

Homily: The Bread of Life and the Injustice of the World

In his homily, reflecting on the Gospel of John and the abundant gift of the “bread of life,” the Pope contrasted the world’s logic—focused on consumption—with Christ’s generous love for humanity:

“He teaches us the right way to seek the bread of life.”

He denounced the injustices of today:

“Many people’s desires are frustrated by violence, exploited by the powerful, and deceived by wealth. When injustice corrupts hearts, the bread of all becomes the possession of a few.”

He stressed that any dynamic opposing fraternity contradicts the Resurrection:

“Every form of oppression, violence, exploitation, and falsehood denies the Resurrection of Christ, the supreme gift of our freedom.”

Christ, the Source of Hope

Despite these realities, the Pope reminded the faithful that hope lies in Christ:

“Christ hears the cry of peoples and renews our history: from every fall He raises us, in every suffering He comforts us, and in mission He encourages us.”

He concluded by addressing the Church in Angola:

“The Church grows through that spiritual fruitfulness which begins in the Eucharist and continues in the integral care of each person and of the whole people.”

Before departing, he urged:

“Angola, remain faithful to your Christian roots! In this way, you can continue, ever more effectively, to contribute to the building of justice and peace in Africa and throughout the world.”

Meeting with the Church in Luanda

In the evening, the Holy Father returned to Luanda, where, at the parish of Our Lady of Fatima, he met with bishops, clergy, religious, and pastoral workers. He praised the courage of the Angolan Church in “denouncing the scourge of war,” while warning:

“This commitment is not over.”

He encouraged continued efforts toward building a society founded on freedom and justice and highlighted the role of catechists as “an inspiration for Catholic communities worldwide.”

He also reaffirmed the need to “enlighten the faithful” through ongoing formation and a consistent witness of life, especially by persevering “in proclaiming the Good News of peace.”

A Call to Authentic Witness and Service

Finally, warning against the “dangerous illusion of superstition,” Pope Leo XIV emphasized communion and service with clear and direct words:

“Foster fraternity among yourselves with honesty and transparency; do not give in to arrogance or self-centeredness; do not detach yourselves from the people, especially the poor; and avoid the pursuit of privileges.”