2026 Papal Trip to Africa

Pope Leo has returned to the subject of AI again and again in speeches, messages and interviews since his election in May 2025.

In the final leg of his apostolic journey to Africa, Pope Leo XIV struck a more measured tone.

The pope’s visit “was a unique moment. For once, the whole country halted, revealing a deep sense of joy and a longing for peace and justice.”

ABOARD THE PAPAL PLANE (OSV News) — Pope Leo XIV said on the papal plane April 23 that the Holy See does not approve of formalized blessings of same-sex couples, …

“Today, Africa is called to contribute significantly to the holiness and missionary character of the Christian people,” the pope said.

Pope Leo was greeted with cheers from the people attending the Mass, many of whom were dressed in the Vatican’s white and yellow colors.

Pope Leo told inmates at a correctional facility in Equatorial Guinea that “no one is excluded from God’s love” and “God never grows tired of forgiving.”

MONGOMO, Equatorial Guinea (OSV News) — Pope Leo XIV celebrated Mass in the second-largest Catholic Church in Africa April 22, telling Catholics in the oil-rich nation that “the future of …

“I primarily come to Africa as a pastor … to be with and to celebrate with, to encourage and accompany, all of the Catholics throughout Africa.”

MALABO, Equatorial Guinea (OSV News) — Pope Leo XIV arrived April 21 in Equatorial Guinea, the fourth and final country of his 11-day apostolic journey in Africa, where the pope …