The Episcopal Conference of Angola and São Tomé (CEAST) has extended a heartfelt welcome to Pope Leo XIV, expressing both admiration for his vision and excitement about the upcoming ad limina visit to the Vatican.

Archbishop José Manuel Imbamba of Saurimo, who serves as CEAST’s President, remarked that the new Pope’s election was received with immense joy across Angola. The faithful flooded social media with messages praising Pope Leo XIV as a humble reformer, a voice for the marginalized, and a champion of social justice—values deeply resonant with the legacy of Pope Francis.

Describing the new Pontiff’s character as “timely and deeply attuned to modern challenges,” Archbishop Imbamba said the Church in Angola is optimistic about the path ahead. The bishops, he added, are eagerly preparing for their scheduled ad limina visit, where they look forward to sharing their hopes and experiences with the Holy Father face-to-face.