African Catholic Church celebrates Pope Leo XIV’s first year as Pontiff
The African bishops also expressed gratitude for the Pope’s Apostolic Visit to Africa, describing it as a powerful sign of communion and solidarity with the continent
KAMPALA, May 9, 2026 — The Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar [SECAM] has joined the global Catholic community in celebrating the first anniversary of the Pontificate of Pope Leo XIV, describing his leadership as a source of hope, peace and spiritual renewal for the Church and the world.
In a message released on Thursday, SECAM said the Church in Africa was offering thanksgiving to God as Pope Leo XIV marked one year since assuming the Petrine ministry on May 8, 2025.
The message, signed by Fridolin Cardinal Ambongo, praised the Pontiff for guiding the faithful with “simplicity, wisdom, compassion, and evangelical courage” throughout his first year in office.
SECAM noted that Pope Leo XIV’s repeated calls for peace, reconciliation, justice and human fraternity had inspired millions across the world, particularly people affected by war, poverty, displacement and social injustice.
“The Church, Family of God in Africa, joins the Universal Church in joyful thanksgiving to Almighty God as His Holiness Pope Leo XIV celebrates the first anniversary of His Pontificate,” the statement said.
The African bishops also expressed gratitude for the Pope’s Apostolic Visit to Africa, describing it as a powerful sign of communion and solidarity with the continent.
According to the statement, the visit strengthened the faith of believers, encouraged young people, comforted communities facing hardship and reaffirmed the dignity of every human person.
SECAM further said the Pope’s words and actions had already produced “abundant spiritual fruits” within local Churches across Africa by promoting reconciliation, deepening solidarity and renewing missionary commitment.
The bishops pledged their continued prayers and support for the Pontiff, while entrusting his ministry to the protection of the Blessed Virgin Mary, under the title of Our Lady of Pompeii.
They prayed that Pope Leo XIV would continue to receive wisdom, good health and strength as he leads the Catholic Church “along the paths of peace, unity, and salvation”.
The anniversary coincided with the Feast of Our Lady of Pompeii, a significant celebration in the Catholic Church.
https://thecooperator.news/africa-welcomes-pope-leo-xiv-with-joy-and-hope/
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