Pope mourns Mozambique's Cardinal Langa, who "proclaimed peace"

Vatican News

Pope Leo has paid tribute to Cardinal Júlio Duarte Langa, Bishop Emeritus of Xai-Xai, the Mozambican diocese he led for around 28 years. The Cardinal died on 3 August at the age of 98.

In a telegram addressed to Capuchin Franciscan Archbishop Francisco Chimoio, Apostolic Administrator of the Mozambican diocese, the Pope expresses his condolences, saying he offers "spiritual closeness and condolences to the bishops of Mozambique, to the family of this beloved brother, to the diocese he served with dedication, and to the entire country as it mourns the loss of such an illustrious shepherd”.

Working towards a future of fraternity

At this time of loss, but “above all, of hope,” Pope Leo praises God for “Dom Júlio’s long life and for the grace of his priesthood for Mozambique and the universal Church.” He recalls some of the defining features of the late Cardinal’s pastoral ministry.

"Faithful to Jesus, his Teacher and Lord," Pope Leo wrote, Cardinal Langa "learned from Him the art of closeness in the pastoral care of souls, devoting himself with simplicity, zeal and perseverance to the flock entrusted to him."

"He did not allow himself to be discouraged by difficulties," Leo continued, "but saw in those very difficulties places thirsting for the Good News, particularly when it became necessary to proclaim the Gospel of peace and reconciliation for a future of fraternity among all Mozambicans."