An Augustinian Pope: Upholding Africa’s Legacy, Embracing Eastern Christianity

A likely influence

Before his election, Pope Leo XIV headed the Vatican’s Dicastery for Bishops, the office responsible for selecting bishops and apostolic administrators. The dicastery evaluates candidates’ qualifications and assesses their spiritual, theological, and administrative capacities. In this role, Pope Leo XIV is believed to have influenced — either directly or indirectly — the 2023 appointment of Bishop Hanna Jallouf as apostolic vicar of Aleppo.

Relic of St. Maron and prayers in Arabic

Several months ago, the newly-elected pope visited the Maronite College in Rome, where he discussed relations with Eastern churches and the concept of communion. At the conclusion of the meeting, college officials presented him with a relic of St. Maron and a statue carved from cedarwood.

Additionally, the Peruvian newspaper La República quoted an Augustinian priest stating that Pope Leo XIV kept a small slip of paper with prayers written in Arabic.

More in Africa

First-ever International Religious Freedom Summit in Africa to Explore “impact” of State Actions, Faith Communities

Read the article

Champion of peace and the Syrian people

In his first address, the word “peace” appeared 10 times, with the pope opening his speech by saying: “Peace be upon you all.” This phrase underscores his vision for his pontificate, particularly regarding conflict zones in the Middle East and Ukraine. It also serves as a reminder of Christ’s Eastern roots.

Although many associate “Peace be upon you” with Islamic traditions, the greeting predates Christianity and was traditionally used to offer reassurance and goodwill.

In a similar vein, Pope Leo XIV re-shared an image on his X account of Syrian child Omran Daqneesh, who was rescued from rubble due to the conflict there. The image was accompanied by words from a Jesuit priest: “Are we shutting our doors to all Syrian refugees? Men, women, and the most vulnerable children? What an immoral nation we have become. Jesus weeps.”

Quoting a Syrian saint in his first Mass

During his first Mass held May 9 at the Sistine Chapel, Pope Leo XIV concluded his homily with a quote from St. Ignatius of Antioch’s “Epistle to the Romans”: “I will truly be a disciple of Jesus Christ when the world will no longer see my body.”

He explained that no leader in the Church can disregard this profound meaning. He also emphasized that the Church of Rome is called to lead the universal Church “with love,” as expressed by St. Ignatius in the introduction to his letter.

This story was first published by ACI MENA, ACI Africa's Arabic-language news partner. It was translated by CNA, ACI Africa's U.S.-based news partner. It has been adapted by ACI Africa.