(21 Mar 09 - RV) The streets of Luanda, Angola are filled once again this morning
by crowds of well-wishers and pilgrims hoping to catch a glimpse of Pope Benedict
XVI.
The Pope, who arrived yesterday in the South West African nation on
the second and final leg of his pastoral journey to Africa, is due to leave the Apostolic
Nunciature any moment now, to make his way by car towards the Church of St Paul, where
at 10 0’clock he will celebrate mass with the priests, religious and ecclesial movements
of Angola and Sao Tomé.
To the delight of waiting crowds last night Pope
Benedict appeared at the window of the Nunciature, where he blessed those faithful
holding vigil.
Indeed since his arrival yesterday every step of his journey
on Angolan soil has been accompanied by the enthusiasm of the Angolan people.
In
his first address to the nation Pope Benedict urged Angolan’s to continue on the path
of reconciliation after nearly three decades of civil war, saying dialogue could overcome
all conflict and tension.
Later in a speech to civic leaders and diplomat’s
he strongly condemned the «unspeakable» sexual violence against women in Africa, and
urged governments to protect unborn life. Later today the Holy Father will meet with
Catholic movements for the promotion of women.
Pope Benedict ’s final appointment
yesterday evening was with the nation’s bishops, where he announced the erection of
a new diocese.
John Baptist Tumusiimi is on the ground with Pope Benedict
and sent us this report: