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ALGIERS, Algeria — The first day of Pope Leo XIV's international apostolic journey to Africa concluded with an encounter with the Algerian community at the Basilica of Our Lady of Africa in Algiers.

"It is with profound joy and fatherly affection that I meet with you today, you whose discrete and precious presence in this land is marked by an ancient heritage and by luminous witnesses of the faith," Pope Leo said after listening to several testimonies.

"Your community has deep roots indeed. You are the heirs of a host of witnesses who gave their lives, motivated by love for God and neighbor," he continued. "I am particularly reminded of the 19 men and women religious who were martyred in Algeria, choosing to stand alongside this people in its joys and sorrows. Their blood is a living seed that never ceases to bear fruit."

After fulfilling the more formal engagements — beginning with the late-morning meeting with the president of the Algerian Republic, authorities, and the diplomatic corps — Leo on Monday afternoon received the embrace of the Algerian Catholic community, present despite heavy rain.

At the opening of the meeting, the pope knelt in adoration in front of a tabernacle containing the Eucharist.

"You are also heirs to a still more ancient tradition, dating back to the early centuries of Christianity," he said in a speech delivered in French. "In this land resounded the fervent voice of Augustine of Hippo, preceded by the testimony of his mother, St. Monica, and of other saints. Their memory shines as a call to be authentic signs of communion, dialogue, and peace today."

"To all of you, dear friends, and to those who are not able to be present but are following this meeting from afar," he added, "I express my gratitude for your daily commitment to manifest the maternal heart of the Church."

After thanking Cardinal Dieudonné Nzapalainga and a religious sister, Pentecostal student, basilica guide, and Muslim woman who had spoken, the pope invited those present to reflect on three essential aspects of Christian life.

"First, prayer. We all need to pray. … Prayer unites, humanizes, strengthens, and purifies the heart. Through prayer, the Church in Algeria sows humanity, unity, strength, and purity, reaching places known only to the Lord," he said.

Turning to charity, Leo emphasized that mercy and service are not merely practical assistance but places of grace and mutual growth.

"After all, it is precisely love for their brothers and sisters that inspired the witness of the martyrs we have commemorated. In the face of hatred and violence, they remained faithful to charity even to the point of sacrificing themselves alongside many other men and women, Christians and Muslims. They did so without ostentation or fanfare, with serenity and steadfastness, neither falling into presumption nor despair, for they knew the One in whom they had placed their trust."

Addressing peace and unity, Pope Leo recalled that this was the central theme of his visit.

"In a world where division and wars sow pain and death among nations, in communities, and even within families, your experience of unity and peace is a compelling sign. Together, you spread fraternity and inspire a deep longing for communion and reconciliation with a powerful and clear message that is borne in simplicity and humility," the pope said.

"A considerable part of this country's territory is desert, and in the desert, no one can survive alone. The hostile environment dispels any presumptions of self-sufficiency, reminding us that we need one another, and that we need God," he said. "When we acknowledge our fragility, our hearts become open to supporting one another and to invoking the One who can grant what no human power can ensure: the profound reconciliation of hearts and, with it, true peace."

Before reaching the Basilica of Our Lady of Africa, Pope Leo XIV stopped at the Great Mosque of Algiers and earlier at the center of hospitality and friendship of the Augustinian Missionary Sisters in Bab El Oued.

There, the pope paid homage to the memory of several religious sisters of this community killed during the civil war in the 1990s. After praying with the sisters and listening to the words of their superior, Leo XIV recalled the martyrs as a precious presence in the land and as a sign of the heart of Augustinian life: witness, even unto martyrdom.

"Your presence here means a great deal," the Holy Father said, recalling a previous visit and highlighting the legacy of St. Augustine in the region: promoting respect for the dignity of every person and affirming that it is possible to live in peace while valuing differences.

Before departing, he thanked the sisters and encouraged them to persevere, recalling that the feast of the 19 martyrs of Algeria falls on May 8 — the day of his election.

Tomorrow, Pope Leo XIV will make what he described as a true return to his roots, with a visit to Hippo, where St. Augustine — founder of the order to which the pope belongs — served as bishop from A.D. 396 to 430.

This story was first published by ACI Stampa, the Italian-language sister service of EWTN News. It has been translated and adapted by EWTN News English.

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President Donald Trump sharply criticized Pope Leo XIV on Sunday, calling him "weak on crime" and "terrible for foreign policy" and saying he is "not a fan" of the pope, prompting a wave of international reactions.

Trump made the comments about the Holy Father in a lengthy April 12 post on Truth Social that appeared to be reacting to the pontiff's recent appeals for peace and an end to the war in Iran. In comments to reporters at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, shortly afterward, Trump said: "I don't think he's doing a very good job. … I am not a fan of Pope Leo." He added: "He's a very liberal person."

On Monday morning, the president doubled down on his comments, saying he would not apologize to the pontiff "because Pope Leo said things that are wrong."

In recent weeks, the pope has repeatedly called for an end to hostilities, crying out "Enough of war!" while presiding over a vigil for peace at St. Peter's Basilica at the Vatican on April 11.

"Stop! It's time for peace! Sit at tables of dialogue and mediation, not at tables where rearmament is planned and death actions are deliberated," he continued.

Iranian leadership spoke out against Trump's comments, with both the current president's and the late Imam Sayyid Ali Khamenei's social media accounts issuing statements.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian wrote in an April 13 social media post: "His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, I condemn the insult to Your Excellency on behalf of the great nation of Iran and declare that the desecration of Jesus, the prophet of peace and brotherhood, is not acceptable to any free person. I wish you glory by Allah."

Pezeshkian's statement comes after peace talks involving Vice President JD Vance collapsed on April 12. Vance, a Catholic convert and Iraq War veteran, blamed Iran's refusal to commit to abandoning its nuclear program.

Khamenei's social media account posted an April 13 message invoking the teachings of Jesus against war: "Prophet Jesus (peace be upon him) used to call people to the path of God, and forbade them from vice and injustice."

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"The corrupt and tyrannical powers sought to assassinate that divine Messenger," the post read, "for those steeped in their passions and the instigators of wars could not tolerate the religion, nor the Prophet, nor those who followed the divine path."

Rome's mayor, Roberto Gualtieri, wrote in an April 13 post: "Rome is close to Pope Leo. Donald Trump's attacks on his high spiritual magisterium and on his commitment to peace are unacceptable and wound sensitivities and consciences. The city of Rome, uniquely bound to its bishop, firmly reaffirms the values of respect, dialogue, and peace."

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who has strong diplomatic ties to the Trump administration, has yet to make a statement.

Father Nikodemus Schnabel, abbot of the Benedictine Abbey of the Dormition in Jerusalem, denounced Trump's post, writing in German: "And then there are actually Catholics — even in the German-speaking world (!) — who still try to sugarcoat the words and actions of this morally bankrupt president and even defend him on moral grounds."

Catholic bishops in the United Kingdom condemned Trump's criticism of Pope Leo and defended the Holy Father's repeated calls for peace.

"As Pope Leo has made clear, we cannot stand by and allow the message of the Gospel to be abused," Archbishop John Wilson of Southwark, England, said in a statement shared with EWTN News. "As bishops, we are not politicians, nor statesmen, nor do we pretend to have all the answers. But as followers of the Lord Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, we know that each of us is called to be a beacon of his peace."

Wilson called Catholics in the U.K. to "be as courageous as our Holy Father in proclaiming the truth that God demands peace."

Cardinal Fernando Chomali of Santiago, Chile, also defended the Holy Father, writing in an April 13 post: "Pope Leo XIV is a good man, forged by years of prayer, study, and closeness to the poor."

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"[Leo] prefers to obey God rather than men. His courage comes from his deepest convictions, from God, and not from passions. We have a coherent leader who charts a path of no return for us: to promote peace always and under all circumstances," Chomali said.

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Three influential American cardinals spoke about the Church under Pope Leo XIV in an interview on "60 Minutes" this week.

In two segments of the show, Cardinal Robert McElroy of Washington, D.C.; Cardinal Joseph Tobin of Newark, New Jersey; and Cardinal Blaise Cupich of Chicago spoke on the Church in America, from increased conversions and the meaning of patriotism to controversial topics like the Iran ceasefire and immigration enforcement.

Why are young people joining the Church?

Cupich said he does not entirely know what is behind the reported rise in young people entering the Catholic Church as U.S. dioceses report elevated numbers of Easter baptisms and confirmations.

"We are doing some surveys about people who are coming to church to see what's motivating them," he said. "I do think, though, that research is showing that there really is a deep hunger in the hearts of young people for something that can help them with the meaning of life. But also there's a woundedness on the part of young people that they are seeking healing for."

"We don't have all the answers, but we are going to try to drill down to find out more about that," Cupich said.

McElroy pointed to a need for "moral leadership in the world" as a partial explanation.

"What a tragedy to have a world in which there are not moral leaders," he said. "I think young people, and young adults particularly, are looking for a sense of that in their lives — and some of those are coming into the Church for that reason."

"The number of those joining the Church this year is a record for the archdiocese, which is a wonderful thing," he said of the Archdiocese of Washington, which had 1,800 converts.

Tobin credited some of the rising interest and attendance in the Catholic Church to Pope Leo.

"I've had the privilege of working closely with four popes: very different people in a lot of ways, but each one in some way was the right one for that moment in time," Tobin said. "I believe that Pope Leo is the right man at this time."

When asked about the effect of the sex abuse scandal on people leaving the Church, Cupich noted that it "prompts us to be even more forthright in doing everything possible to protect children, but also to address the harm that was done."

"That, I think, is something that's always on the front burner for us with regard to the fall off in terms of people practicing," he said.

Cupich noted, however, that other religions are seeing declines in membership as well.

"It's also part of the secularization that's happening in society today," he said. "People have a lot more options on Sunday, on the weekend, than they did before. So I think there are a number of factors that contributed to that decline."

What does patriotism look like for Catholics?

In light of the upcoming 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, the cardinals shared their thoughts on a Catholic understanding of patriotism.

"For us as Catholic Americans, we love our country because of what it aspires to be and has for the past 250 years," McElroy said.

"We love our country not merely because we were born here, if we were, but rather because of its aspirations of democracy, justice, equality, of freedom that have been lived out with differing levels of success all through our history, and having to change it and readapt it to make it more true to its core," he continued.

"For me," Cupich said, "patriotism is about being united in the common task of creating the opportunities for everyone to flourish — that they would have the opportunity to be the person God intended them to be."

"That is part of the aspirations that immigrants came here with; an opportunity to have a fresh start," he said. "So how can we work together to make sure that everybody has an opportunity to flourish? I think that's patriotism."

Pope Leo and politics: Iran and ICE

When asked if he would like to see the first American pope be more outspoken on controversial issues, Tobin said: "He's the pastor of the world; he's not a pundit."

"The distinction is he's not going to pronounce on everything, but he's going to pronounce on what's important," Tobin said.

Recently, Pope Leo has called for an end to the war with Iran, advocating for peace and dialogue.

When asked if the Iran war is a just war according to Catholic teaching, McElroy said it is not.

"Catholic faith teaches us there are certain prerequisites for a just war," he said. "You can't go for a variety of different aims. You have to have a focused aim, which is to restore justice and restore peace. That's it."

When asked about the destruction of the Iranian regime's nuclear and ballistic missile capabilities as an aim of the war, McElroy agreed that the regime "should be removed."

"It's an abominable regime and it should be removed," McElroy said. "But this is a war of choice that we went to and I think it's embedded in a wider moment in the United States that's worrying, which is this. We're seeing before us the possibility of war after war after war."

Cupich criticized the Trump administration's "gamification" of the war through social media posts and edits, calling it "sickening."

"We're dehumanizing the victims of war by turning the suffering of people and the killing of children and our own soldiers into entertainment," he said. "It is sickening. To splice together movie cuts with actual bombing and targeting of people for the purposes of entertainment is sickening. This is not who we are. We're better than this."

The cardinals also shared pastoral concerns amid ongoing deportations, an issue about which Pope Leo has also spoken.

Tobin criticized the tactics used by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency, saying that when immigrants "have to hide their identities," this "can actually violate other guarantees of our Constitution and Bill of Rights."

"I think somebody's got to call that out," he said. "And I'm not the only one."

McElroy shared his concern that many immigrants "live under fear."

He said attendance at Spanish Masses in his archdiocese went down 30% in the past year. "Thirty percent — that's a lot, and it's all fear," he said.

McElroy said there "is a roundup of people throughout the country, people who have been living good, strong lives; [who have] been here a long time." These people "raised their children here; many of their children [were] born here and are citizens," he said. "That's what our objection is."

But the cardinal, who for 10 years served as bishop of San Diego, added that he does believe in strong borders, noting that under Biden, "it got to a point where it was getting out of control."

Recalling the pope's recent words and actions (the pope is currently visiting Africa on his third international journey), Cupich said Leo is "sending a message that his top priority right now is to be with those who are downcast and marginalized."

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ABOARD THE PAPAL FLIGHT — Pope Leo XIV said Monday that he will continue to speak out "loudly" against war, stressing that his role is to preach the Gospel, not to enter into political disputes.

Speaking to journalists aboard the papal flight to Algiers on April 13, the pope responded to a question about a post by U.S. President Donald Trump.

"I think people who read it will be able to draw their own conclusions. I am not a politician, and I have no intention of entering into a debate with him," Leo said.

The pope said he would remain outspoken in condemning war and promoting peace.

"I have no fear neither of the Trump administration nor of speaking out loudly about the message of the Gospel," he said in comments to a different journalist. "That's what I believe I am called to do and what the Church is called to do. We're not politicians. We're not looking to make foreign policy, as [Trump] calls it, with the same perspective that he might understand it."

"But I do believe that the message of the Gospel, 'blessed are the peacemakers,' is a message that the world needs to hear today."

The pope also reflected on the meaning of his trip to Algeria, describing it as both a personal blessing and an important opportunity for the Church and the wider world.

"As you know, I am very happy to visit once again the land of St. Augustine," he said. He noted that the saint offers "a very important bridge in interreligious dialogue" and remains deeply loved in his homeland.

Leo said the visit would allow him to see the places associated with the life of St. Augustine, including the places where he served as bishop.

"Today is truly a blessing for me personally, but I believe also for the Church and for the world, because we must always seek bridges in order to build peace and reconciliation," he said.

The trip, he added, is "a most precious opportunity" to continue proclaiming the same message with the same voice: "We want to promote peace, reconciliation, and respect and consideration for all peoples."

He concluded by thanking the journalists traveling with him.

"Welcome, everyone. I am happy to greet you," the pope said. "Have a good trip, and thank you for the service you offer to all the people."

This story was first published by ACI Stampa, the Italian-language sister service of EWTN News. It has been translated and adapted by EWTN News English.

Correction: Quotations attributed to Pope Leo XIV in this article have been revised based on audio recordings of his comments.

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Bishop Juan Ignacio Liébana of Chascomús in Argentina issued a message to young people wishing to enter politics in which he reflected on the characteristics that those aspiring to undertake the task must possess, with particular emphasis on the common good.

The prelate, who is also a member of the Social Pastoral Commission, noted in his letter that politics is "one of the noblest tasks" and is "charity exercised at its highest level."

"It means administering what belongs to everyone; it means engaging in dialogue, listening, enduring tensions, and always seeking what is just, good, and appropriate while looking out for the most vulnerable, working for the common good, and fostering processes of friendship and social dialogue," he explained.

He asked that anyone who "enters politics" be a person of integrity, someone "who does not toy with the dreams and hopes of a people."

He outlined several essential qualities and habits that aspiring politicians should cultivate.

According to the bishop, such a person should be austere, possess a deep spirituality, and be firmly rooted in values and principles.

The bishop advised that politicians should always keep close at hand a list of their campaign promises and deepest aspirations, so they can periodically hold themselves accountable and undertake a sincere examination of conscience.

He emphasized the importance of humility, urging politicians not to become enamored of their own image. Instead, they should know how to "renounce and die" to themselves and to their own petty interests.

They should be quick to ask for forgiveness and know how to step away from their work each day to rest, pray, and reflect, enjoying with sobriety the simple things in life — nature, family, wholesome friendship, and serene prayer.

Liébana added that politicians must never lose their tenderness, their smile, or their simplicity and should make time to play with their own children and visit their elders.

He warned against the allure of luxury, stating that politicians should not be enamored of travel, the "high life," or extravagant living, as these temptations often lead to the misuse of power and distance them from the realities of ordinary people.

The bishop also stressed the need for good and honest companions, recommending that politicians surround themselves with true friends who are willing to correct them directly and honestly. He advised always having a wise person nearby to consult, listen to, and learn from.

Finally, Liébana called for a clear understanding of one's innermost motivations for entering politics. If the goal is to make money, become famous, have a good time, or gain recognition, he said, then the person is mistaken about the nature of the vocation.

"The temptations are many; that's why one must stand firm," the prelate emphasized. In his view, politics "should be a place for the best, the most virtuous, and not 'a den of thieves.'"

"We cannot continue to toy with the future of our people, who are already weary and fed up with so much narcissism and mediocrity. This applies equally to every public servant, including us who are consecrated religious," he pointed out.

"Let us ask God to raise up vocations of public servants who are enthusiastic and passionate, sober and austere, simple and humble — ordinary men and women who are approachable, and filled with tenderness and love for our beloved Argentina. Our homeland deserves it," he emphasized.

This story was first published by ACI Prensa, the Spanish-language sister service of EWTN News. It has been translated and adapted by EWTN News English.

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ALGIERS, Algeria — Pope Leo XIV on Monday presented himself to Algeria's diplomatic corps and civil society as "a pilgrim of peace," urging a more just international order, warning against exclusion and inequality, and praising those who refuse to be "blinded by power or wealth."

Peace remained the central theme of the pope's first day in Algeria, following his earlier stop at the Martyrs' Memorial, where he delivered an appeal for peace and reconciliation.

Speaking in French at the Djamaa el Djazair Conference Center, Leo recalled his previous visits to Algeria in 2001 and 2013 to Annaba, the ancient see of St. Augustine, whose spiritual legacy has long shaped the Augustinian order to which the pope belongs.

"I am here among you as a pilgrim of peace, eager to meet the noble Algerian people," the pope said. "We are brothers and sisters, for we have the same Father in heaven."

Leo said the "profound religious sense of the Algerian people" fosters "a culture of encounter and reconciliation," adding that his visit also seeks to be a sign of that spirit.

"In a world full of conflicts and misunderstandings, let us meet and strive for mutual understanding, recognizing that we are one family!" he said. "Today, the simplicity of this awareness is the key to opening many doors that are closed."

Addressing an audience of about 1,400 people from civil society and the diplomatic corps, the pope praised the resilience of the Algerian people, saying they had never been defeated by their trials because of their spirit of solidarity, hospitality, and community.

"They are the truly strong ones, to whom the future belongs: those who do not allow themselves to be blinded by power or wealth, and those who refuse to sacrifice the dignity of their fellow citizens for the sake of personal or collective gain," he said.

Leo also highlighted the Algerian understanding of hospitality and almsgiving, reflected in the word "sadaka," which he noted can also mean justice.

"The one who accumulates wealth and remains indifferent to others is unjust," the pope said, calling this vision of justice both "simple and radical" because it recognizes the image of God in others. "Indeed, a religion without mercy and a society without solidarity are a scandal in God's eyes."

At the same time, he warned that many societies that consider themselves advanced are falling ever deeper into inequality and exclusion, while "people and organizations that dominate others destroy the world." He said Africa knows this reality well and suggested that Algeria's historical experience gives it a critical perspective on global power balances.

"If you are able to engage in dialogue regarding the concerns of all and show solidarity with the sufferings of so many countries near and far, then you will be able to contribute to both envisioning and bringing about greater justice among peoples," Leo said.

He added that this task is especially urgent "in the face of continuous violations of international law and neocolonial tendencies."

Drawing on the teaching of Benedict XVI and Pope Francis, Leo called on Algeria's authorities not to fear a broader social participation by those on the margins.

"I therefore urge those of you who hold positions of authority in this country not to fear this outlook but to promote a vibrant, dynamic, and free civil society, in which young people in particular are recognized as capable of helping to broaden the horizon of hope for all," he said.

"The true strength of a nation lies in the cooperation of everyone in pursuing the common good," he continued. "Authorities are called not to dominate but to serve the people and foster their development."

The pope also pointed to Algeria's unique role as "a bridge between North and South, and between East and West," describing the Mediterranean and the Sahara as geographical and spiritual crossroads rich with human and cultural meaning.

"Woe to us if we turn them into graveyards where hope also dies!" he said. "Let us multiply oases of peace; let us denounce and remove the causes of despair; and let us oppose those who profit from the misfortune of others!"

"For illicit are the gains of those who exploit human life, whose dignity is inviolable," he added.

Leo then broadened his reflection to the place of religion in modern society, noting that Algeria, like much of the world, experiences tensions between religious sensibility and modern life. He warned against both fundamentalism and secularization when they distort the true sense of God and human dignity.

"Religious symbols and words can become, on the one hand, blasphemous languages of violence and oppression, or on the other, empty signs in the immense marketplace of consumption that does not satisfy us," he said.

Still, the pope insisted that such polarization should not lead to despair.

"We must educate people in critical thinking and freedom, in listening and dialogue, and in the trust that leads us to recognize in those who are different fellow travelers and not threats," he said. "We must work toward the healing of memory and reconciliation among former adversaries."

In his introduction, Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune called Leo's presence the first visit of a pope to Algeria and said it gave the occasion "a unique resonance." He invoked both St. Augustine and Emir Abdelkader as enduring models at a time of accelerating change and weakening moral values.

Tebboune also praised the pope's moral authority and his support for social justice while reaffirming Algeria's commitment to working with the Holy Father to promote dialogue, coexistence, and cooperation over division and conflict.

This story was first published by ACI Stampa, the Italian-language sister service of EWTN News. It has been translated and adapted by EWTN News English.

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Pope Leo XIV departed Monday for Algeria, the first stop on a 10-day trip to Africa that marks the third international journey of his pontificate.

The pope's April 13–23 visit will also include stops in Cameroon, Angola, and Equatorial Guinea, making it the longest trip of his pontificate so far. After earlier visits to Turkey and Lebanon and a brief trip to the Principality of Monaco, Leo is now traveling to four African nations with distinct histories, cultures, and pastoral realities.

The first stop is Algeria, where Leo will be from April 13–15. The visit is expected to focus especially on encounter and fraternity. Catholics in Algeria number only a few thousand in a country of about 48 million Muslims.

For the first time, a pope is visiting the land of St. Augustine — a fitting destination for Leo XIV, who described himself on May 8, when he first appeared as pope from the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, as "a son of St. Augustine."

From Algeria, Leo will travel April 15 to Cameroon, where he will remain until April 18. His itinerary there includes the capital, Yaoundé, as well as Douala, the country's economic center, and Bamenda, which lies at the heart of the so-called Anglophone conflict. Douala and Bamenda are also considered strongholds of political opposition to the government of President Paul Biya, who has been in power since 1982.

Leo XIV will be the third pope to visit Cameroon, after St. John Paul II, who traveled there in 1985 and 1995, and Benedict XVI, who visited in 2009.

Like Benedict XVI during that 2009 trip, Leo will also visit Angola. He is scheduled to be in Luanda, Muxima, and Saurimo from April 18–21.

The pope's final stop will be Equatorial Guinea, where he will be from April 21–23 to mark the 170th anniversary of the country's evangelization.

The flight to Algeria was expected to last about two hours, with the papal plane crossing over Italy and France before arriving in Algiers.

Before his departure, Leo sent a telegram to Italian President Sergio Mattarella.

"At the moment when I am preparing to make the apostolic journey to Algeria, Cameroon, Angola and Equatorial Guinea," the pope wrote, "moved by the lively desire to meet the brothers and sisters in the faith and the inhabitants of those dear nations, I am pleased to address to you, Mr. President, the expression of my respectful greeting, which I accompany with fervent prayers for the good and prosperity of the entire Italian people."

This story was originally published by ACI Stampa, EWTN News' Italian-language partner agency. It has been translated and adapted by EWTN News English.

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ABOARD THE PAPAL FLIGHT — Pope Leo XIV said Monday that he will continue to speak out "loudly" against war, stressing that his role is to preach the Gospel, not to enter into political disputes.

Speaking to journalists aboard the papal flight to Algiers on April 13, the pope responded to a question about a post by U.S. President Donald Trump.

"I think people who read it will be able to draw their own conclusions. I am not a politician, and I have no intention of entering into a debate with him," Leo said. "Rather, let us always seek peace and put an end to wars."

"I am not afraid of the Trump administration," he added. "I speak about the Gospel; I am not a politician. I do not think the message of the Gospel should be misused in the way some people are doing."

The pope said he would remain outspoken in condemning war and promoting peace.

"I will continue to speak out loudly against war, to seek to promote peace and multilateral dialogue among states in order to find just solutions to problems," he said. "The message of the Church is the message of the Gospel: Blessed are the peacemakers."

Leo underscored that he does not see his mission in political terms.

"I do not look at my role as that of a politician. I do not want to enter into a debate with him. Too many people are suffering in the world," he said.

The pope also reflected on the meaning of his trip to Algeria, describing it as both a personal blessing and an important opportunity for the Church and the wider world.

"As you know, I am very happy to visit once again the land of St. Augustine," he said. He noted that the saint offers "a very important bridge in interreligious dialogue" and remains deeply loved in his homeland.

Leo said the visit would allow him to see the places associated with the life of St. Augustine, including the places where he served as bishop.

"Today is truly a blessing for me personally, but I believe also for the Church and for the world, because we must always seek bridges in order to build peace and reconciliation," he said.

The trip, he added, is "a most precious opportunity" to continue proclaiming the same message with the same voice: "We want to promote peace, reconciliation, and respect and consideration for all peoples."

He concluded by thanking the journalists traveling with him.

"Welcome, everyone. I am happy to greet you," the pope said. "Have a good trip, and thank you for the service you offer to all the people."

This story was first published by ACI Stampa, the Italian-language sister service of EWTN News. It has been translated and adapted by EWTN News English.

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Pope Leo XIV kicks off his first papal trip to Africa in Algeria on Monday, spending two days there before visiting Cameroon, Angola, and Equatorial Guinea.

Here are seven key things to know about the tiny but lively Catholic Church he's about to meet:

1. Catholics are a tiny flock in this huge country.

Algeria has roughly 45 million to 48 million people but only a few thousand Catholics — often estimated at no more than 10,000, a fraction of 1% of the population.

Most Catholics are expatriates, sub-Saharan African students, migrant workers, diplomats, and religious; Indigenous Algerian Catholics are very few because conversion from Islam is both sensitive culturally and regulated legally. Yet, the Church maintains dioceses, parishes, and regular sacramental life, showing a qualitative rather than numerical impact.

2. Algeria has one of the largest dioceses in the world.

The Church is organized into four jurisdictions: the Archdiocese of Algiers and the Dioceses of Oran, Constantine and Hippone, and Laghouat-Ghardaïa.

The pope is set to visit Algiers and Annaba (ancient Hippo); however, Laghouat-Ghardaïa covers a massive Sahara territory, making it one of the largest dioceses in the world by land area.

Because Catholics are so scattered, priests and religious often serve several communities at once, relying on close-knit, relational ministry more than big programs.

3. This is the homeland of St. Augustine.

Considering that the pope is a member of the Order of St. Augustine, this visit will have very special and personal moments. Algeria once hosted a vibrant Latin Christian world; its greatest son is St. Augustine of Hippo, bishop and doctor of the Church.

Annaba — a city the pope will visit — was once called Hippo Regius and is home to the Basilica of St. Augustine, which physically links the early Church to today's small Catholic community.

4. The Catholic Church in Algeria lives under a tightly regulated religious framework.

Islam is the state religion in Algeria, and while the constitution affirms freedom of conscience, non-Muslim worship is closely regulated. Non-Muslim communities must register places of worship, public proselytism is restricted, and conversion from Islam can bring serious social consequences.

Recent years have seen some closures and administrative pressures on Christian worship spaces and ministries, underscoring how fragile this small Church's institutional space is.

Despite this, the Catholic Church in Algeria runs schools, cultural centers, and charitable initiatives, often through institutes of consecrated life and societies of apostolic life.

5. The 1990s martyrs still mark Catholic life in this country.

During Algeria's civil conflict in the 1990s, several priests, religious, and the Trappist monks of Tibhirine were killed, along with Bishop Pierre Claverie of Oran. In 2018, 19 martyrs of that period were beatified in Oran in a ceremony attended by Muslim leaders and framed as a sign of reconciliation for the whole nation.

These martyrs are remembered not as political actors but as friends who chose to stay with the Algerian people, shaping today's Catholic identity of fidelity and solidarity.

6. Interreligious dialogue is not optional but the heart of the mission.

As a tiny minority in a Muslim-majority country, the Catholic Church defines much of its mission through respectful dialogue with Islam. Priests and religious engage in academic exchanges, social projects, and cultural encounters that build trust rather than confrontation.

7. Marian devotion is a bridge amid differences.

Places like the Basilica of Our Lady of Africa in Algiers have become strong symbols of coexistence, where Marian devotion is a bridge even amid deep theological differences.

This is a unique site of interreligious coexistence where many Muslims visit to pray to Mary, whom they call "Lalla Meriem."

A famous inscription behind the altar reads: "Our Lady of Africa, pray for us and for the Muslims."

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