Former Mozambican President Welcomes Cardinal Parolin’s Visit, Hails Church’s “irreplaceable” Role in Peacebuilding

Maputo, 10 December, 2025 / 8:15 PM

Mozambique’s former President has welcomed the visit of the Vatican Secretary of State to Cabo Delgado Province, praising the Catholic Church as “irreplaceable” in advancing peace, social justice, and reconciliation in the country.

In a message following the Monday, December 8, visit of Pietro Cardinal Parolin, former President Filipe Nyusi described the Cardinal’s presence as more than a diplomatic gesture, calling it a pastoral visit from a shepherd who understands the reality of the Mozambican people and walks with them in moments of trial.

“I thank His Eminence for participating in the celebration of the Eucharist in our city, which represents the servants and communities of the entire province of Cabo Delgado,” Mr. Nyusi said.

He added, “We have not only received the Secretary of State of the Vatican; we have been visited by a Shepherd who knows our reality, a Shepherd who walks with us in decisive moments. The Cardinal who honors us with his presence shares the Church’s concern for the life and dignity of Mozambicans.”

“We can affirm that the Catholic Church is irreplaceable in promoting peace, social justice, and reconciliation among Mozambicans, and respects all those involved in this endeavor for peace,” the former President said.

Reflecting on the crises in Cabo Delgado, which covers Mozambique’s Pemba Catholic Diocese, Mr. Nyusi said the province “has lived through years of violent extremism, suffering, and the displacement of thousands of families, deeply affecting the fabric of our society.”

“In this difficult situation, the attention of His Eminence Cardinal Parolin, the closeness of the Holy See, and the tireless work of our diocese in this province represent the hope, compassion, and moral resilience of a people of Christ,” the former President of Mozambique said.

He implored, “May this visit strengthen the spiritual bonds among Mozambicans, renew the faith of our communities, and inspire us.”

“We will continue to pray for the health of our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV,” Mr. Nyusi said.

During his visit to Mozambique’s Pemba Diocese, Cardinal Parolin met with displaced families living in reception centers, praising their resilience and unwavering faith despite hardship.

He assured victims of terrorism and destructive cyclones in Cabo Delgado Province that they are not alone in their suffering, conveying the Holy Father’s message of closeness and the solidarity of the Universal Church.

I have come to tell you all journeying in Cabo Delgado, that you are not alone. The Holy Father and the entire Church, which is One and Universal, are with you,” Cardinal Parolin said.

The Vatican Cardinal added, “Your sufferings, your fears and anxieties, but also your hopes, are in the heart of Mother Church and have a special place in the heart of the Successor of Peter.”