AMECEA: Bishops Welcome the New Pope Leo XIV, Inspired by His Call for Peace
Sr. Jecinter Antoinette Okoth, FSSA
The Bishops of the Association of Member Episcopal Conferences in Eastern Africa (AMECEA) have extended their heartfelt congratulations to Pope Leo XIV on his election as the 267th successor of St. Peter, expressing deep gratitude for his inaugural message and inspiration from his vision of peace, unity, and missionary outreach.
In a statement from the Chairman of the association Bishop Charles Sampa Kasonde on behalf of the Episcopal conferences of Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Sudan and South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia, the AMECEA bishops welcomed the new Pope’s stirring words delivered at St. Peter’s Square on May 8, where he greeted the world with the message: “Peace be with all of you!”
Bishop Kasonde of Solwezi Diocese, Zambia, highlighted how this call for “a disarming, humble, and persevering peace” resonates deeply with the people of Eastern Africa, many of whom continue to endure conflict, displacement, and socio-political instability.
“We are particularly moved by the Holy Father’s emphasis on becoming a missionary Church that builds bridges and dialogue,” read in parts the statement shared with AMECEA Online a day after the election of the new Pontiff, as it continues, “This reflects the pastoral and social realities of our region, where the Church strives to be a beacon of hope, reconciliation, and solidarity among communities facing significant trials.”
Recounting Pope Leo XIV’s personal connection with Eastern Africa, particularly through his previous missionary service in Kenya and Tanzania as Superior General of the Order of St. Augustine (OSA), the Zambian Prelate on behalf of the Bishops emphasizes that this gives the new Pope a unique pastoral sensitivity to the spiritual and social needs of the faithful in the AMECEA region. This background inspires confidence that his papacy will continue to prioritize the peripheries and advocate for those most in need.
In the Friday, May 9, message addressed to Pope Leo XIV, the Bishops focused on the symbolic weight of his new chosen name saying, “The name Leo evokes the legacy of Pope Leo the Great, a stalwart defender of Church unity and doctrine, and Pope Leo XIII, whose teachings on social justice and human dignity remain relevant today. This continuity of vision reinforces our hope that Pope Leo XIV will lead the Church with courage, wisdom, and compassion.”
Additionally, the Bishops echoed the Pope’s appeal for a united Church that walks together in the search for justice and peace and affirmed their commitment to collaborate with him in advancing the mission of Christ, particularly in promoting healing, human dignity, and spiritual growth across the region.
“May your pontificate be blessed with the strength and faith of St. Peter, whose successor you now are,” Bishop Kasonde pointed out on behalf of the other bishops and concluded, “We pledge our prayers, fraternal support, and loyal communion as you begin your apostolic ministry. May Our Lady of Africa intercede for you and guide you in your service to the Universal Church.”
