SECAM: African Bishops Welcome Pope Leo XIV, Hopeful for Leadership that Unlocks Continent’s Potential
Sr. Jecinter Antoinette Okoth, FSSA
The Church in Africa, through the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM), has joyfully welcomed the election of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, expressing hope that his leadership will mark a new era of missionary vigour for the continent and the universal Church.
“We believe his (Pope Leo XIV) leadership will unlock Africa’s full potential, empowering our youth to become agents of positive change, inspired by the Gospel,” Fridolin Cardinal Ambongo Besungu, the President of SECAM, shared in a statement published Saturday, May 10, a day after the election of the new Pope.
Welcoming the Pontiff on behalf of the Bishops in Africa, Cardinal Ambongo, who was one of the Cardinal Electors at the Conclave that elected Pope Leo XIV, expressed that “This historic moment marks a new chapter in the life of the Church, a season of hope, renewal, and missionary commitment.”
He referenced the prophet Jeremiah in relation to the election of the new Pope as significant to Africa, saying, “I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will lead you with knowledge and understanding” (Jer 3:15).
With its rapidly growing Catholic population and a vibrant, youthful Church, members of SECAM narrate that Africa is ready to play an increasingly vital role in the mission of the Church under the new pontificate. At the same time, the Bishops hope that Pope Leo XIV’s pastoral guidance will deepen the faith across the continent, strengthen religious vocations, and promote development rooted in the Gospel.
According to Cardinal Ambongo, since the African continent is rich in cultural heritage and deep-rooted spirituality, it remains an essential partner in the life of the global Church. He further voiced Pope Leo XIV’s pastoral wisdom and evangelical zeal that gives the people in Africa confidence in his commitment to justice, peace, and human dignity, especially for the poor, marginalized, and victims of conflict and inequality.
In a strong show of unity, the Church in Africa reaffirms its full communion and collaboration with the Holy Father saying, “We stand ready to work with him (Pope Leo XIV) in addressing the pressing challenges facing our communities, including conflicts, poverty alleviation, education, healthcare, interreligious dialogue, and environmental stewardship.”
Members of SECAM concluded their message by assuring Pope Leo XIV of their prayers and unwavering support as he begins his mission as the Successor of Peter and Shepherd of the universal Church. They entrusted his papacy to the intercession of Mary, Mother of the Church and Patroness of Africa.
