The Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, concludes his Apostolic journey to Angola, and IMBISA is present.
Pope Leo XIV’s visit to Angola (Southern Africa) from April 18 to 21, 2026, is a highly significant event, transcending the strictly religious sphere to achieve diplomatic, social, and political impacts focused on peace, national reconciliation, and interreligious dialogue. The trip, which includes other African countries (Algeria, Cameroon, and Equatorial Guinea), confirms the Church’s commitment to the contemporary challenges of the region. Angola is recognized as a pillar of the expansion of Catholicism in Africa, with deep historical roots. This visit reinforces the Church’s role in promoting peace, emphasizing the importance of faith and the need for social dialogue, consolidating the presence of the Holy See in the region. During his pastoral visit, the Pontiff highlighted the importance of African youth, the promotion of political stability, and visited symbolic sites such as the Muxima Sanctuary. On this apostolic journey, IMBISA was represented by its President and three other Bishops, including two from Zimbabwe and one from Mozambique, as well as priests.
The itinerary of the Holy Father’s visit to Angola included:
1- Meeting with the President of the Republic, after his arrival, on April 18, 2026.
2- Meeting with the Diplomatic Corps, Government Authorities and Civil Society, on April 18, 2026.
3- Archdiocese of Luanda, with the celebration of Holy Mass in Kilamba on April 19.
4- Recitation of the rosary at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Muxima, Diocese of Viana.
5- Archdiocese of Lunda Sul, in the East of the country, with the celebration of Holy Mass and a visit to the nursing home.
6- Meeting with Bishops, religious, seminarians, catechists and lay faithful at the Church of Our Lady of Fatima. The Holy Father left Angola on the morning of April 21, 2026, heading towards Equatorial Guinea to continue his Apostolic journey to Africa.
Thank you for your visit and may God bless you, Pope Leo XIV!