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The Conversation
The Conversation
Mathew Schmalz, Professor of Religious Studies, College of the Holy Cross

Pope Leo XIV’s Africa journey: How each stop reflects his message of peace

Pope Leo XIV uses hyssop sprigs to sprinkle holy water during Easter Mass in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican on April 5, 2026. AP Photo/Andrew Medichini

Pope Leo XIV will begin his journey to four African countries – Algeria, Cameroon, Angola and Equatorial Guinea – on April 13, 2026.

Africa represents the fastest-growing part of the Catholic Church worldwide, seeing an increase from 281 million members in 2023 to over 288 million in 2024.

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