Nampula: A senior Catholic leader in Mozambique has strongly condemned a recent attack on a historic Catholic mission in the northern province of Cabo Delgado, describing it as an act of hatred that threatens the country’s long tradition of peaceful coexistence.
Inácio Saúre, the Metropolitan Archbishop of Nampula and President of the Episcopal Conference of Mozambique, expressed deep sorrow over the destruction of the Saint Louis Marie de Montfort mission located in the Diocese of Pemba. The attack took place toward the end of April and left much of the mission in ruins.
According to Church sources, the attackers burned down key structures, including the parish church, residences of the missionaries, and a small school that served the local community. The mission, established in 1946 by Montfort missionaries, has long been an important centre for both faith and social services in the region.
Archbishop Saúre said he received news of the incident with profound pain. He described the destruction as barbaric and said it was not only an attack on buildings but also on the spiritual and social life of the people who depended on the mission. He noted that the attackers left behind strong messages of hatred directed at Christians.
He warned that such violence goes against the values that Mozambican society has upheld for generations. He stressed that people of different religious beliefs in the country have traditionally lived together in mutual respect and peace.
In his appeal, the Archbishop highlighted the shared roots of the Abrahamic religions. He said that the God worshipped by Christians, Muslims, and Jews is a God of love and not of violence. He urged all believers to reject hatred and to respect one another.
He also made a strong call to end all forms of religious extremism. At the same time, he spoke out against Islamophobia, insisting that Muslims should not be seen as enemies but as brothers. His message focused on unity, urging all people, regardless of their beliefs, to live together in harmony.
The attack comes amid ongoing insecurity in Cabo Delgado, a region that has faced violence linked to extremist groups since 2017. The conflict has forced hundreds of thousands of people to flee their homes and has disrupted daily life, including access to education, healthcare, and places of worship.
Young Catholics in the Archdiocese of Nampula have also reacted with concern and sadness. One youth, Henriques Magaza, described the attacks as a sign of a deeper spiritual crisis and called for a return to faith and prayer. Another young Catholic, Nilza Manuel Carlos António, offered words of encouragement to those affected, asking them not to lose hope.
Youth leader Malito João said the Church continues to stand with young people, especially those living in areas affected by violence. He emphasised the importance of both spiritual guidance and social support during difficult times.
Despite the challenges, the Catholic Church in Mozambique has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peace, encouraging dialogue between religions, and defending human dignity. Church leaders say they will continue to support affected communities while calling for an end to violence in Cabo Delgado.