Pope Leo XIV has begun this April 13 his apostolic journey to Africa, with stops in Algeria, Cameroon, Angola, and Equatorial Guinea, an itinerary that the Pontiff himself had conceived as the first of his pontificate.
During the flight between Rome and Algiers, the Holy Father addressed the journalists present, explaining the meaning of the trip and its connection to the figure of Saint Augustine.
“This trip, which is very special for various reasons, was supposed to be the first of the pontificate,” he affirmed, recalling that last year he had already expressed his desire to begin his ministry with a visit to the African continent.
The figure of Saint Augustine as the axis of the trip
The Pope emphasized the importance of Algeria as land linked to Saint Augustine, whose figure he places at the center of this journey. “I am very happy to visit the land of Saint Augustine again,” he noted.
Leo XIV also highlighted the value of the saint as a reference for interreligious dialogue: “Saint Augustine offers a very important bridge in interreligious dialogue.”
The Pontiff will visit, among other places, the city of Hippo—currently Annaba—where Saint Augustine was bishop.
A message centered on peace and reconciliation
In his intervention, the Pope explained that the trip aims to reinforce a common message for the Church and the international community. “We must always seek bridges to build peace and reconciliation,” he affirmed.
In this line, he added that the trip represents “a very valuable opportunity to promote peace, reconciliation, respect, and consideration for all peoples.”
The Holy Father concluded his greeting by thanking the journalists who accompany him on the flight.