Pope Leo XIV's Visit to Angola: A Reflection on Slavery and Healing

Pope Leo XIV's visit to the Sanctuary of Mama Muxima in Angola on April 19, 2026, marked a poignant moment in the context of the Catholic Church's historical ties to the African slave trade. The Church of Our Lady of Muxima, built by Portuguese colonizers in the late 16th century, served as a hub for the slave trade, where enslaved Africans were baptized before being transported to the Americas. This site has become a major pilgrimage destination since reports of a Virgin Mary apparition in 1833, symbolizing both faith and the painful legacy of slavery.

Pope prays at Catholic shrine in Angola that was a center of African slave tradePope Leo XIV's visit to African church linked to slavery reflects on his own heritageEuronews

During his visit, Pope Leo XIV prayed the Rosary and acknowledged the "sorrow and great suffering" endured by Angolans throughout history. He urged the gathered crowd of approximately 30,000 to work towards a "better, more welcoming world" free from wars, injustices, and poverty. While he did not explicitly mention slavery, his presence at Muxima was seen as a significant step towards healing for many Black Catholics, who view the visit as an opportunity to confront the Church's historical complicity in slavery.

Pope prays at Catholic shrine in Angola that was a center of African slave trade

The Catholic Church's involvement in the slave trade is underscored by historical documents such as the papal bulls issued by Pope Nicholas V in 1452 and 1455, which granted the Portuguese the right to enslave non-Christians. Although the Vatican formally repudiated the Doctrine of Discovery in 2023, it has not rescinded these earlier bulls. Scholars like Rev. Christopher J. Kellerman argue that the Church has perpetuated a "false narrative" of opposition to slavery, despite its historical actions that supported colonialism and the slave trade.

Pope prays at Catholic shrine in Angola that was a center of African slave trade

Pope Leo XIV's own ancestry adds complexity to his visit. Genealogical research indicates that he has both Black and white ancestors, including individuals who were enslaved and enslavers. This heritage has led to varied reactions among Black Catholic scholars, some of whom emphasize the importance of the Pope addressing this aspect of his identity. Cardinal Wilton Gregory noted that Leo's roots resonate with many African Americans, fostering a sense of connection and pride.

Pope prays at Catholic shrine in Angola that was a center of African slave trade

Critics, including opposition lawmaker Olivio Nkilumbo, have called for the Pope to deliver a strong message advocating for social justice and democracy in Angola, a country still grappling with the legacies of colonialism and corruption. Nkilumbo expressed hope that the Pope would serve as a "pilgrim for peace and reconciliation," urging him to address the ongoing struggles faced by Angolans despite the nation's rich natural resources.

Pope Leo XIV's visit to African church linked to slavery reflects on his own heritageEuronews

Pope Leo XIV's visit to Muxima serves as a symbolic moment for many, reflecting on the intertwined histories of Catholicism and slavery in Angola. While the Pope's prayers and calls for peace resonate with the local population, the visit also highlights the need for the Church to confront its past and actively engage in promoting justice and healing in contemporary society. As the Pope continues his journey through Africa, the implications of his visit to Angola will likely reverberate within the Church and among its followers for years to come.

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