Yaounde: Pope Leo XIV has urged people to remain strong in faith and support one another as he concluded his visit to Cameroon with a large public Mass in the capital Yaoundé.
Speaking to a crowd of about two hundred thousand people, Pope expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and shared moments of faith during his four day visit. Many faithful had gathered early and stayed overnight to take part in the celebration, while many others followed from nearby areas.
In his homily, Pope reflected on the struggles of life, comparing them to storms faced by the disciples of Jesus. He said that just as the disciples were not abandoned, people today should trust that Christ remains present even in difficult times. This faith, he said, gives strength to move forward with courage despite challenges.
He reminded the faithful that hardships such as poverty, social tensions and personal struggles should not be faced alone. Instead, communities should stand together, support one another and ensure that no one is left behind. According to him, faith is not only spiritual but also calls for action in society, especially in helping those who are weak and in need.
Pope also stressed the importance of unity and shared responsibility. He said that individual efforts are not enough to build a strong community, and called for collective commitment rooted in moral values and the teachings of the Gospel.
Recalling the early Christian community, he noted how believers came together in prayer and discussion to face challenges and support vulnerable people such as widows and orphans. He encouraged people today to follow the same spirit by listening, sharing and working together.
As he ended the Mass, Pope Leo XIV encouraged the faithful to carry forward the joy and lessons of the gathering into their daily lives. He said the Church in Cameroon is vibrant and full of hope, and urged people to continue growing in faith and unity even when facing life’s difficulties.
Pope is set to continue his journey in Africa with his next visit to Angola.