Pope Leo XIV Visits Africa

RRI.CO.ID.Jakarta: Pope Leo XIV has begun his apostolic visit to Algeria, marking the first stop of his 11-day tour across Africa. The visit is aimed at promoting peace, reconciliation, and interfaith dialogue, particularly between Christians and Muslims.

Upon arrival, Pope Leo XIV was welcomed by Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune and paid tribute to the country's independence heroes at the Maqam Echahid monument. He emphasized that the future belongs to those who choose peace.

The Pope's visit is significant, given Algeria's history and its role as the birthplace of Saint Augustine, a prominent Christian theologian. Pope Leo XIV is the first Augustinian Pope, and his visit aims to strengthen ties between the Catholic Church and the Muslim community.

During his visit, Pope Leo XIV met with Algerian officials, including the President, and addressed diplomats and civil society leaders. He stressed the importance of respecting human dignity and promoting mutual understanding.

The Pope also visited the Great Mosque of Algiers, where he emphasized the need for peaceful coexistence and mutual respect between different faiths. He delivered a speech, starting with the traditional Islamic greeting, "Assalamu alaikum" (Peace be upon you).

Pope Leo XIV's visit is seen as a significant step in promoting interfaith dialogue and understanding. The Pope's message of peace and reconciliation has been welcomed by Algerian authorities and citizens alike.

The visit will also focus on the growing Catholic community in Africa, which is experiencing rapid growth. The Pope's trip is expected to strengthen the Church's presence in the region and promote greater cooperation between different faiths.

Overall, Pope Leo XIV's visit to Algeria is a significant event that highlights the importance of interfaith dialogue, peace, and reconciliation in the region and beyond.

Pope Leo XIV’s visit to Africa will continue in Cameroon on Wednesday, followed by Angola and Equatorial Guinea, and will cover more than 18,000 kilometres between 13 and 23 April.

Source: RFI/AFP