Saurimo: Pope Leo XIV has called on the faithful in Angola to seek a deeper and more sincere relationship with Christ, urging them to focus on spiritual values rather than temporary gains.
Speaking during a Mass in Saurimo as part of his apostolic journey, Pope said the Risen Christ continues to guide people towards God and strengthens them through the Spirit. He reminded believers that faith is not just about receiving blessings but about transforming one’s life through love and commitment.
Pope reflected on how many people follow Jesus for material reasons, recalling the Gospel where people sought Christ after being fed. He warned that faith can lose its true meaning when God is treated as a source of personal benefit rather than a relationship built on love and trust.
At the same time, he stressed that Christ does not reject those who come with imperfect intentions but instead invites them to change their hearts. True faith, he said, requires not only listening to Jesus but also following His example in daily life.
During his homily, Pope Leo also spoke about the struggles faced by many people today, including injustice, exploitation and inequality. He said that when society is driven by greed and corruption, the basic needs of many are taken over by a few, leaving others in hardship.
Despite these challenges, he offered a message of hope, saying Christ hears the cries of the suffering and continues to renew lives. He encouraged people to believe in the power of the Gospel, which brings forgiveness, unity and new life.
Pope reminded the faithful that human life is not meant for despair or oppression, but for freedom and dignity. He said that the message of the Resurrection is not only about life after death but also about living with hope and purpose every day.
He concluded by urging the people to remain strong in faith, saying that God’s path never fails and that Christ always walks with them, guiding them through difficulties towards peace and reconciliation.