Pope Leo XIV Visits Angolan Shrine, Reflects on Slave Trade History
Pope Leo XIV visited the Sanctuary of Mama Muxima in Angola, a site historically linked to the African slave trade. The pope prayed at the shrine, which was originally built by Portuguese colonizers and served as a hub for enslaving Africans. During his visit, Pope Leo XIV acknowledged the suffering endured by Angolans and called for a more just and peaceful world. The visit is significant as it highlights the Catholic Church's historical involvement in the slave trade and the ongoing need for reconciliation and acknowledgment of past injustices.