Pope Leo XIV Tells Thousands in Angola: 'Build Hope

The first American-born pope brought a message of hope to a nation still healing from decades of conflict.

Pope Leo XIV spoke to massive crowds on Sunday in Kilamba, just outside Angola's capital of Luanda, during a historic four-country African tour. His words resonated deeply in a country that endured a brutal civil war until 2002.

"Today, there is a need to look to the future with hope and to build that hope. Do not be afraid to do so," Leo told the gathering. The pontiff acknowledged Angola's painful past of "enmity and division, squandered resources and poverty," but his message centered on renewal rather than dwelling on darkness.

Sister Christina Matende arrived at 6am to secure her spot among the faithful. "The pope coming here is a joy," she said. "We are living in a moment of a lot of difficulties, and we are waiting for the blessing of the pope."

The pope's visit extended beyond spiritual comfort. In meetings with President Joao Lourenco and other officials, Leo spoke frankly about the exploitation of Angola's natural resources and the environmental damage it has caused. Catholic lawyer Domingos das Neves welcomed this focus on justice in a country struggling with "stark social asymmetries and inequalities."

After the Mass, Leo traveled by helicopter to Muxima, home to a 300-year-old church that draws two million pilgrims yearly. The site holds special significance as it overlooks a river once used for slave trading, a powerful symbol of Angola's journey from suffering to faith.

The Ripple Effect

Pope Leo's African tour represents more than ceremonial visits. His consistent message across Algeria, Cameroon, and Angola has challenged both local corruption and international exploitation of the continent's resources. By speaking directly about poverty, environmental destruction, and social inequality, he's giving voice to millions who feel forgotten.

The pontiff's courage extends beyond local issues. Despite criticism from powerful voices, including being called "weak" by former US President Trump, Leo continues advocating for peace and social justice. His willingness to confront uncomfortable truths while maintaining a message of hope offers a template for addressing difficult problems with compassion.

Local Angolans are responding with overwhelming support. The massive turnout in Kilamba and the expected crowds in Muxima show how hungry people are for leadership that acknowledges their struggles while pointing toward solutions. Das Neves captured this sentiment perfectly: "Angola is in great need of a guiding light to illuminate our collective efforts...so that we do not forget the poor and the destitute."

As Leo continues to Equatorial Guinea to complete his tour, his message remains clear: real hope requires both honest acknowledgment of problems and determined action to solve them.