“We should not seek signs of prosperity”: Apostolic Nuncio in Angola to Women and Men Religious in Southern Africa

The native of Poland’s Catholic Diocese of Przemyśl noted that “Consecrated Persons are called to be leaven of hope and fraternity,” recalling that “the Gospel calls us to humility, self-giving, and solidarity with the poor and the marginalized.” 

“Our life must be a visible sign of God’s love in all dimensions of society,” he said.

Reflecting on the 2026 World Day of Consecrated Life marked on February 2, Archbishop Dubiel exhorted ICLSAL members  to live Consecrated Life as “a witness of fraternity, service, and hope that illuminates the life of the Church and society.”

“There is an urgent need for a Consecrated Life that accompanies communities, promoting justice, unity, and the proclamation of the Gospel amid the social challenges faced in Southern Africa,” he said.

The Vatican diplomat added that “the Consecrated vocation is a gift to the Church, called to respond to the deepest needs of humanity through love and self-giving.”

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“Consecrated Persons are not called only to live personal spirituality, but also to be a transforming presence in the world, especially among the poor, the marginalized, and the vulnerable,” the Apostolic Nuncio in Angola said.

He noted that “Consecrated Life should inspire solidarity, care for others, and the building of peace in the communities where they serve.”

The Apostolic Nuncio recalled that ICLSAL members are sent as “living signs of God’s love within communities,” encouraging them to take an active part in works of justice, solidarity, and the promotion of human dignity.

“The mission of Consecrated Life includes looking after those who suffer, defending them, and sharing with them the hope that comes from the Gospel,” he said.

Archbishop Dubiel encouraged ICLSAL members and the Laity, saying, “I encourage collaboration among Consecrated Persons, the laity, and the entire ecclesial community as a way of strengthening the Church’s presence and witness in the contemporary world.”