In a moving celebration of faith and unity, Mass was offered at St. Peter’s Basilica on Monday for Ambassadors of African nations accredited to the Holy See, together with faithful taking part in the ongoing Jubilee pilgrimage. The liturgy came just a day after the 62nd observance of Africa Day, further highlighting the vibrant presence of the African Church within the global Catholic community.
Surprising the congregation with a heartfelt, unscheduled appearance, Pope Leo XIV extended his personal greeting and spiritual encouragement to the African delegations. Speaking in English, the Holy Father reflected on the grace-filled theme of the 2025 Holy Year, describing it as a time that “inspires us all and invites us all to look for hope, but also to be signs of hope.”
His message resonated with the heart of the Jubilee: a call to live faith actively and daily. “How important it is,” he said, “that each and every baptized person feel himself or herself called by God to be a sign of hope in the world today.”
The Pope reminded the faithful that our strength as Christians comes from faith, which enables us to see Christ’s light in our lives and to walk in His presence not just during pilgrimages or Sunday worship, but every day.
“Faith fills us with the hope that only Jesus Christ can give,” he affirmed.
Pope Leo also offered a vision of unity and gratitude: “May we walk together as brothers and sisters to praise God, recognizing that all we have is a gift to be shared.”
The African diplomatic and spiritual delegation was accompanied by notable Church leaders including Cardinal Peter Turkson, Cardinal Francis Arinze, and Archbishop Fortunatus Nwachukwu—all of whom reflect the deep-rooted contributions of Africa to the Universal Church.
Before departing, the Holy Father offered a prayer of thanksgiving:
“Thank you, Lord Jesus, and may your name be praised.”
As the African Church journeys through the Jubilee Year, the Pope’s words stand as a beacon for all: Live hope. Be hope. Share hope.
