Youth Congress in Angola: Young Catholics Urged to Embrace Work as a Path to Dignity

“Some young people are afraid to marry, not because they don’t love, but because they want to throw parties that shut down cities — even without a home or a job. That’s mental poverty disguised as pride,” he said, calling for realism, simplicity, and maturity in life decisions.

He emphasized that work is both a right and a duty, saying, “God wants us to be co-creators with Him. Work dignifies us and allows us to be active agents in transforming society. A young person who works builds, grows, and fulfills their potential.”

Bishop Chissengueti underscored the need for forgiveness in spiritual growth and rebuilding relationships. 

“Without forgiveness, there is no Church. Without mercy, there is no love,” he said. 

Recalling Jesus’ post-resurrection appearance to the disciples with the greeting “Peace be with you,” he encouraged youth to forgive parents, friends, and even authorities who may have failed them.

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“Vengeance is never the Christian way. Mercy is the breath of the world,” he declared, warning that many young people lose family, friendships, and opportunities because they do not know how to forgive. 

“Resentment is a silent poison. It’s like drinking poison, hoping someone else dies,” he said.

Bishop Chissengueti urged youth to be responsible in exercising their freedom and choosing their companions. 

He warned against corrupt, deceitful, or morally compromising friendships, saying, “Avoid bad company, the corrupt, thieves, and friends who push you toward destruction.”

Addressing parents, educators, and pastoral leaders, Bishop Chissengueti called for emotional and moral support for youth, especially girls facing early pregnancies. 

“Don’t humiliate your daughters or throw them into the arms of worthless men. Embrace and help them to continue to grow,” he appealed. 

The 56-year-old Catholic Bishop acknowledged the contributions of Christian youth already active in public service, politics, and their communities, saying, “The Christian youth should not withdraw from the world. Whether at school, on duty, in politics, or at the beach — wherever they are, they should be there with dignity.”

He urged youth to be active agents of change, saying, “Faith is not a refuge. It is a mission. A confirmed young person must be leavened in the dough, salt that gives flavor, light that guides through darkness.”

“The Church needs young people with awareness and responsibility. Confirmed in faith, they must lead the way toward a better world,” he said.

João Vissesse is an Angolan Journalist with a passion and rich experience in Catholic Church Communication and Media Apostolate.