Pope Leo XIV's Anticipated Visit to Angola “a blessing to the whole of Africa”, Catholic Priests

Fr. Malamba further said that the Pope will address the entire community, including political leaders and members of other religions, offering comfort and encouragement. 

“His presence will be very important, telling us to have faith and trust that the storm will sooner or later turn into calm,” he said.

On his part, Fr. Tiago Kassoma of the Catholic Diocese of Benguela said the Holy Father will be “the visible presence of the continuation of Christ’s mission in His Church.” 

Fr. Kassoma added that the visit will reaffirm that the Catholic Church in Angola and Africa is part of a global communion of brothers and sisters in Christ.

The 56-year-old Catholic Priest, who has served for 28 years in the Priesthood, observed that the Pope’s presence will give Angola international visibility. 

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“As Angolan society, we are certain that this will be a special moment; once again, our country will have a major window of visibility on the world stage,” he said. 

Fr. Kassoma noted that it would be a grace to take part in Pope Leo XIV’s first trip to the African continent and that the visit would strengthen peace and social justice.

Also speaking to ACI Africa, Fr. Joaquim Brumba of the Catholic Diocese of Cabinda emphasized that the Pope’s visit will demonstrate the unity of the Church and special attention to Angola and Africa.

“The visit will be counsel from a great religious authority that will be taken into account for our progress, both within the Church and beyond it. It will encourage us and strengthen our faith,” Fr. Brumba said.

For him, the visit will also be a universal appeal. 

“He will not come only for Catholics, but for all human beings. His words will bring peace, happiness, and unity to those who believe in life and in faith,” he said.

On his part, Fr. Ezequiel Faria described the visit as a divine occasion. 

According to him, the Pope will come like Peter, to strengthen the brothers and embrace the Angolan land as a pilgrim of peace. 

He recalled that Angola has previously welcomed Popes John Paul II and Benedict XVI, noting that the third papal visit will have historical and spiritual significance.

The member of the Clergy of the Diocese of Benguela said the visit will confirm the faith of Christians and offer a renewed vision for addressing future challenges, bringing comfort to hearts discouraged by the country’s social and political difficulties.

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Fr. Murua Massoxi Clemente of the Diocese of Ndalatando said that any Pope, upon assuming the Chair of Saint Peter, seeks to reach people in every corner of the world.

He noted that Pope Leo XIV’s visit to Africa and Angola will be significant for spiritual, pastoral, and diplomatic reasons, representing unity, peace, and human values. 

Fr. Massoxi said he expects messages of peace, harmony, and justice, as well as renewed faith and moral strength.

“Certainly, the Pope will bring words of faith, hope, and love. His message will have a lasting effect on future generations, helping us transform Angola, Africa, and the world through the Word of God,” he said.

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