Kilamba: Pope Leo XIV celebrated Holy Mass in Kilamba on Sunday, bringing together around 100,000 people in a powerful moment of faith during his Apostolic Journey in Africa. The gathering included worshippers not only from across Angola but also from countries such as Poland, Italy and Uruguay.
Kilamba, a planned city located about 30 kilometres from Luanda, turned into a place of prayer and celebration as the faithful marked the third Sunday of Easter with Pope. The large crowd reflected both local devotion and the global nature of the Catholic Church.
Music played a central role in the celebration. The liturgy was animated by the 500 vozes choir, representing dioceses from across Angola and São Tomé. Their voices created a joyful atmosphere that filled the open space. Among the musicians was young pianist Luis Muxinda, who described the moment as a rare and exciting opportunity to serve at such a major event.
The Mass also brought together missionaries serving in Angola. Andrés Algorta, who has worked for years in Luanda, expressed deep gratitude for Pope’s presence. He said the Holy Father’s message of compassion, especially towards people affected by deadly floods in Benguela, touched many hearts. According to him, Pope’s words made people feel seen and supported in their suffering.
From Poland, Krystyna Zachwieja shared her joy at being part of the celebration. She said the visit has brought renewed hope and energy for evangelization work in Angola, especially in education and pastoral care.
The presence of medical missionaries also highlighted the Church’s service to the most vulnerable. Italian paediatricians Sergio Facchini and Eleonora Biasotto, who are working in Luanda, spoke about the challenges of treating malnourished children. They described their mission as demanding but meaningful, and said the Pope’s closeness to the poor gives them strength to continue.
For many Angolans, the visit carries a deeper meaning. Daniel Malamba described Pope as a pilgrim of peace and hope. He said the country continues to seek social harmony, inner peace and unity among its people.
The Mass in Kilamba stood as a strong sign of faith, unity and encouragement, bringing together voices from different nations in a shared moment of prayer and hope.