Angolan youth, especially Catholic Scouts, prepare to take key roles in Pope Leo XIV’s upcoming visit, highlighting faith and national unity.
Newsroom (17/02/2026 Gaudium Press ) The Catholic Church in Angola is preparing for a moment of deep faith and national pride as Pope Leo XIV’s anticipated visit draws near. Bishop Belmiro Cuica Chissengueti of the Diocese of Cabinda has confirmed that young people—particularly Catholic Scouts—will play a leading role in organizing and welcoming the Holy Father, embodying the vitality and devotion of the nation’s Catholic community.
Speaking at the conclusion of the National Meeting of Catholic Scouts of Angola on February 16 in Luanda, Bishop Chissengueti explained that youth are not merely participants but central protagonists in this historic moment. “Young people will be at the forefront of welcoming, organizing, and participating in this historic moment for Angola and the Church,” he said.
As Coordinator of the Papal Visit, the prelate emphasized the Scouts’ specific mission: to oversee hospitality at the three main sites the Holy Father will visit. This responsibility, he noted, reflects the Church’s confidence in the organization, discipline, and faith commitment of Catholic youth in Angola.
Faith in Action
Bishop Chissengueti, who also leads the Episcopal Commission for youth, university ministry, and Scouting within the Bishops’ Conference of Angola and São Tomé and Príncipe (CEAST), described the Scouts’ recent national meeting as a time of prayer, reflection, and preparation. “The gathering helped participants deepen their faith and prepare in a practical way for the Pope’s visit,” he said.
The Spiritan bishop highlighted that the chance to welcome the Holy Father is both rare and transformative. “Having the opportunity to see the Holy Father does not happen every day,” he explained. “Those who have never traveled—and it is not easy to travel for a World Youth Day—will have the chance to see the Pope here in their own country.”
A Living Witness of Youth Leadership
For Bishop Chissengueti, the Papal visit extends beyond a single event; it stands as a testament to the enduring role of young people in the life of the Church and society. “This is an opportunity to live the faith concretely, serve the community, and leave a positive mark on the Church’s history in Angola,” he said. The prelate emphasized that the organizational work surrounding the visit, coordinated between the government and the Church, aims to reflect Angola’s deep Catholic identity and its commitment to excellence in welcoming the Holy Father.
Recognizing the significance of the moment, Bishop Chissengueti reminded the faithful of the country’s history with previous papal visits. “Angola previously received Saint John Paul II, 34 years ago, and Benedict XVI, 17 years ago. This will be the third time a Pontiff visits the country,” he reflected, calling it both an honor and a responsibility.
As preparations advance, Catholic youth across Angola are embracing their calling with enthusiasm and reverence—ready to represent a generation of faith-filled leaders who view this visit not just as a ceremonial event but as a profound encounter with the universal Church.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from ACi Africa
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