…As Pontiff embarks on Apostolic Journey to four African countries
The Vatican has announced the title of Pope Leo XIV message for the 112th World Day of Migrants and Refugees, urging the world to pay attention to minors.
The Pope has chosen ‘Even just one of these children’ as the title for his message for this year’s World Day of Migrants and Refugees.
According to the Vatican, the theme references the Gospel according to Matthew: “Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.”
Pope Leo expressed the Church’s concern for minors directly involved in migration, recalling the duty to welcome each one of them as the Gospel teaches.
The World Refugee Day is celebrated every year on October 4 and 5, to call global attention to the plights of refugees and migrants, and to also highlight the necessity of setting aside sympathy and acting effectively.
Similarly, Matteo Bruni, director of the Holy See Press Office, says Pope Leo XIV Apostolic Journey to Algeria, Cameroon, Angola and Equatorial Guinea, will deepen Interfaith relationship and also strengthen ties with the Church.
The Pope is expected to visit Africa between April 13 and 23, with addresses in English, French, Portuguese and Spanish.
According to Bruni, the theme of the Pope’s Apostolic Journey to Africa will focus on peace, migration, the environment, young people and the family.
The Vatican disclosed that there will be no special security measures planned for the visit in what is considered Pope Leo’s longest journey so far and his first visit to Algeria, as well as the first papal visit in decades to the other three countries.
According to Bruni, the itinerary spans places and contexts marked by cultural and linguistic diversity, as well as social and political challenges, including conflict, migration and interreligious coexistence.
In Algeria, the visit will, of course, include references to the legacy of Saint Augustine and to Christian presence in North Africa, alongside dialogue with the Muslim world and the issue of migration.
In Cameroon, described as “Africa in miniature” because of the variety and richness of its land, traditions, and languages, the Pope is expected to address themes related to peace, coexistence, youth and integral human development.
In Angola, the focus will include the role of young people, natural and human resources, and the impact of corruption and colonial history.
In Equatorial Guinea, attention will be given to culture and education, as well as to the Church’s role in promoting peace in a resource-rich region.
Members of the papal delegation will include representatives of various Dicasteries, along with several Cardinals from Africa.
Bruni also disclosed that the Pope is expected to hold an in-flight press conference during his flight back to Rome at the end of the Apostolic journey.