Archbishop Dias says Church and State in Angola are tackling major logistical challenges ahead of Pope Leo XIV’s April Apostolic Visit.
Newsroom (26/03/2026 Gaudium Press ) Archbishop Filomeno do Nascimento Vieira Dias of the Catholic Archdiocese of Luanda has confirmed that preparations for the Apostolic Visit of Pope Leo XIV to Angola are advancing steadily despite “immense” logistical challenges. He credited the progress to close coordination between Angola’s Church and State authorities.
Speaking to reporters on March 24 during an inspection tour at the Basilica of Our Lady of the Conception of Muxima—led by President João Lourenço—the Archbishop said the combined structural, technical, and organizational demands of the visit are being tackled collaboratively.
“The logistical challenges are immense, but there is a joint effort between the Angolan State and the Church to find the best responses and the most appropriate solutions,” Archbishop Dias said.
He voiced optimism that the shared commitment of both institutions would ensure the papal journey’s success. “By combining efforts, resources, and goodwill, we are confident this visit will be a great success and a moment of joy for all,” he added.
A Nation United in Anticipation
According to Archbishop Dias, news of Pope Leo XIV’s forthcoming arrival has generated nationwide enthusiasm. He described the rare honor of hosting a pontiff as “a moment of grace” for the Southern African nation.
“It is not common for a country to receive a Pope, but Angola has had this grace before,” he said, referring to past visits from the Holy See. He added that the Apostolic Journey will extend beyond liturgical celebrations, serving as an occasion to deepen faith and strengthen national unity.
“This visit is not limited to a liturgical agenda; it is a unique opportunity to reinforce faith, unity, and communion among Angolans,” he said.
Muxima Basilica at the Heart of Events
The Muxima Basilica—currently under renovation—is expected to serve as one of the central venues during the Pope’s visit. Archbishop Dias reaffirmed that construction is on schedule and the shrine’s facilities will be able to host thousands of pilgrims in safety and comfort.
“The works are progressing according to schedule, and the basilica will provide a suitable space to welcome the faithful in conditions of comfort and safety,” he said.
He emphasized that preparations—spanning logistics, security, hospitality, and media coordination—are being executed with “meticulous planning” to ensure every dimension of the visit reflects Angola’s commitment to excellence.
“Every activity, every reception, and every liturgical moment must be carried out with excellence so that this visit leaves a lasting mark on the history of Angola,” Archbishop Dias stressed.
Schedule for Pope Leo XIV’s Visit
Pope Leo XIV is scheduled to arrive in Luanda on April 18 for a three-day Apostolic Visit. His itinerary includes a meeting with President João Lourenço, government officials, and representatives of civil society.
On April 19, the Pope will celebrate Holy Mass in Luanda’s Kilamba district before traveling to the Marian shrine of Mama Muxima to lead pilgrims in the recitation of the Holy Rosary.
The following day, April 20, the Pontiff will visit Saurimo in eastern Angola, where he plans to spend time with residents of a nursing home and preside over another Mass. His final engagements will bring him back to Luanda for meetings with Bishops, Clergy, and Religious at Our Lady of Fatima Parish.
As preparations intensify, Archbishop Dias underscored that the success of the visit will depend on sustained cooperation between Church and State—a partnership he believes has already demonstrated “good faith, unity, and shared vision.”
- Raju Hasmukh with files from ACI Africa
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