Leo XIV’s Next Trip to Africa – "Build Bridge to Muslim World"
- During this trip, I also met privately with representatives of various groups connected to political authorities and to internal or international conflicts in the region. Our work happens mostly behind the scenes, not in public statements.
- A year or two ago I also thought that I would one day retire. … One simply gives his life to the Lord and allows the Lord to guide him.
- If you want to know something about me—what my spirituality has been for many years, amid great challenges … I trust in God.
- I surrendered [at the conclave] when I saw how things were going. I took a deep breath and said, "Here we are, Lord, you are the boss, you lead the way."
- My face is very expressive, but I am often amused by how journalists interpret my face. You think you can read my mind or my face. You are not always right.
- The Holy See does not have direct involvement [Russia/NATO] because we are not members of NATO and have not participated in any of the dialogues so far. Even though we have often called for a ceasefire, dialogue, and 'no war'.
- I hope my next trip will be to Africa—ideally to Algeria, to visit the places of St. Augustine and to continue strengthening dialogue and building bridges between the Christian and Muslim worlds.
- There are fears in Europe, often stirred by those opposed to immigration. Yet we need to work together, and this trip has shown the world that real dialogue and friendship between Muslims and Christians are possible.
- I fear that many Catholics in Germany believe that certain aspects of the synodal path celebrated so far in Germany do not represent their hopes for the Church or their way of living the Church. Therefore, further dialogue and listening is necessary within Germany itself, so that no voice is excluded.
Picture: Vatican Media, #newsSjmqtulmpa