Pope Leo XIV Critiques Exploitation During Angola Visit
Pope blasts 'exploitation' as he wraps up tour of Angola
Hindustan Times
Image: Hindustan Times
Pope Leo XIV condemned exploitation and corruption during his visit to Angola's impoverished Lunda Sul province, emphasizing the disparity between the country's riches and the poverty faced by its citizens. This visit is part of his extensive African tour, which includes stops in Equatorial Guinea and highlights the need for justice and support for marginalized communities.
- 01Pope Leo XIV condemned exploitation and corruption in Angola during his visit.
- 02He highlighted the disparity between Angola's wealth from diamonds and oil and the poverty of its citizens.
- 03The pope visited a home for the elderly, reinforcing the church's support for the community.
- 04He criticized the environmental damage caused by mining and called for justice.
- 05Leo is the third pope to visit Angola, following John Paul II and Benedict XVI.
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During his visit to Angola's Lunda Sul province, Pope Leo XIV condemned the exploitation and corruption that benefit the wealthy elite at the expense of the impoverished majority. Speaking at an open-air Mass in Saurimo, he noted that around 40,000 people attended the service, where he emphasized the frustrations faced by many due to violence and injustice. Angola, rich in diamonds and oil, has a significant portion of its population living below the World Bank poverty line. The pope also visited an elderly care home, highlighting the Catholic Church's role in supporting vulnerable communities. He criticized the environmental damage caused by mining operations and called for a new culture of justice and sharing to address corruption. His visit is part of an 11-day tour across four African nations, with Equatorial Guinea next on his itinerary. Leo is the third pope to visit Angola, following John Paul II in 1992 and Benedict XVI in 2009.
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The pope's visit highlights the stark contrast between Angola's wealth and the widespread poverty, drawing attention to the need for social justice and support for marginalized communities.
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