During his visit to Angola, Pope Leo XIV prays with pilgrims at the historic Mama Muxima Shrine, urging young people to draw from Marian devotion a commitment to justice, solidarity, and peace in society.
By Vatican News Pope Leo XIV on Sunday visited the Marian Shrine of Mama Muxima, in Angola, one of the country’s most important pilgrimage sites, where he joined the faithful in praying the Rosary. Located about 130 kilometres from the capital city, Luanda, the Shrine of Mama Muxima - meaning “Mother of the Heart” in Kimbundu - has, for centuries, been a place of prayer for Angolans. Built in the 16th century, it became a centre of devotion during difficult periods in the nation’s history, including colonial rule and the long civil war. Today, it continues to attract thousands of pilgrims each year. Gratitude for the moment of prayer Addressing young people, members of the Legion of Mary, and other devotees gathered at the shrine, the Pope expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to share what he described as a "moment of Marian prayer" with the local Church. He reflected on the Rosary, which they had just prayed, as a simple and accessible form of prayer rooted in the Church’s tradition. Quoting Saint John Paul II, he described it as a prayer that retains the "freshness" of early Christianity and continues to inspire believers to proclaim Christ in the world. Pope Leo then highlighted the strong sense of faith among the people, describing it as both "living and young". He also acknowledged the historical significance of the shrine as a place where generations have come to pray in times of both joy and hardship. "Mama Muxima welcomes everyone, listens to everyone and prays for everyone", he said. An Easter visit As the Pope’s visit to the shrine comes during the Easter season, he emphasised that the Resurrection points those who believe towards their ultimate destiny while also calling them to live out their mission in the present. He encouraged the faithful to look to Mary as a model, particularly her capacity to reflect on and treasure the events of her Son’s life. In doing so, he said, Christians are invited to grow in a love that is "universal" and attentive to others. The Pope then noted that prayer must lead to concrete action, especially in caring for those in need. He pointed to key areas such as access to food, healthcare, education, and dignified living conditions for the elderly, describing these as essential expressions of Christian charity. "A mother loves all her children", he said, adding that this example should guide the faithful in their commitment to others, particularly the most vulnerable. A sign of hope The Pope also referred to the ongoing construction of a new, larger shrine intended to accommodate the growing number of pilgrims. He described this project as a sign of hope and an invitation, especially for young people, to help build a more just and peaceful society. Addressing the young people directly, he then called on them to work towards a world free from war, injustice, poverty, and corruption, where the values of the Gospel can shape both personal lives and broader social structures. "It is love that must triumph, not war", he said. Bringing his address to a close, Pope Leo XIV invited the faithful to entrust themselves to Mary and to carry God’s blessing into their daily lives and encouraged them to leave the shrine as "messengers of life", bringing hope and solidarity to others.