Pope Francis’ visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) last week was a huge success. Not only did he draw more than one million worshippers to his open-air Mass in Kinshasa, but he also left a lasting impression on the country and its people. The Pope’s visit marked an important milestone for the DRC. With political instability, rampant poverty, and health issues such as Ebola, it was uplifting to see so many people come together in support of the Catholic leader. In this article, we’ll explore why Pope Francis’ visit was so significant for the DRC and what impact it had on the people who attended his Mass.
Pope Francis’ visit to the DRC
Pope Francis’ visit to the DRC was a huge success, with more than one million worshippers attending his Mass. The Pope was warmly welcomed by the people of the DRC, and his message of peace and reconciliation resonated with them. The Pope’s visit also brought much-needed attention to the plight of the people of the DRC, who have been suffering from conflict and violence for many years.
The Mass in Kinshasa
Pope Francis celebrated Mass in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, on Sunday, attracting more than one million worshippers. It was the largest crowd ever for a papal Mass in Africa.
Francis is the first pope to visit the DRC in 30 years, and his trip comes at a time of political turmoil in the country. Congo’s President Joseph Kabila has been in power for 17 years and is constitutionally barred from running for another term, but he has refused to step down. His government has been accused of human rights abuses.
The pope’s Mass was held in Kinshasa’s main stadium, which was packed with people waving Congolese flags and cheering as Francis drove by in his popemobile. ManyCongolese pilgrims had traveled for days to see the pope.
“We are very happy because it is rare to have a pope come to Congo,” said one pilgrim, Aline Nzuzi. “We have been waiting for this day for a long time.”
In his homily, Francis called on Congolese politicians to end the country’s political crisis and respect the constitution. He also urged young people to resist temptation and build a better future for themselves and their country.
“Do not be discouraged by all that negates life in your country,” Francis said. “The young people of Congo have a right to hope.”
The reaction of the people
On Sunday, Pope Francis celebrated Mass in Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). More than one million worshippers attended the Mass, which was held outdoors in a stadium.
The reaction of the people was overwhelmingly positive. Many said that it was an honor to have the Pope visit their country and that his message of peace and unity resonated with them. There were also those who were simply excited to see such a famous figure in person.
Many Congolese Catholics said they appreciated the Pope’s focus on peace and reconciliation in his homily. In a country that has been plagued by conflict for decades, they said, this is exactly what is needed.
The large turnout for the Mass showed that Pope Francis is widely popular in the DRC. His visit was seen as a boost for the country’s Catholic Church, which has been growing rapidly in recent years.
The message of the Pope
Pope Francis’ message to the people of the Congo was one of hope and reconciliation. He called on the Congolese people to put aside their differences and work together for the good of the country. He also spoke out against corruption and violence, and urged the people to stand up for their rights. The Pope’s message was well-received by the large crowd that gathered to hear him speak.
