Faith Amid Africa’s Struggles

Posted by Tom McFeely

Monday, March 23, 2009 7:34 AM

(CNS/Alessia Giuliani, Catholic Press Photo)

This poignant photo features a group of children standing atop a mountain of trash to catch a glimpse of Pope Benedict XVI celebrating Mass yesterday in Luanda, Angola.

It highlights comments the Pope made today as he concluded his African trip.

And it should remind us that Africans need authentic material help — not condoms.

Here’s what the Holy Father said, according to Vatican Information Service:

“Our hearts cannot find peace while there are still brothers and sisters who suffer for lack of food, work, shelter or other fundamental goods. If we are to offer a definite response to these fellow human beings, the first challenge to be overcome is that of building solidarity: solidarity between generations, solidarity between nations and between continents, which should lead to an ever more equitable sharing of the earth’s resources among all people.”

Benedict also noted that despite the material difficulties that afflict so many in Africa, the Catholic faith is vibrant there.

“I thank God that I have found the Church here to be so alive and full of enthusiasm, despite the difficulties, able to take up its own cross and that of others, bearing witness before everyone to the saving power of the Gospel message,”  said the Pope. “She continues to proclaim that the time of hope has come, and she is committed to bringing peace and promoting the exercise of fraternal charity in a way that is acceptable to all, respecting the ideas and sensitivities of each person.”

Filed under africa, benedict xvi