“Do not be deceived by easy things”: Catholic Archbishop in Angola at Conclusion of Youth Festival

“We must not stop dreaming of a better world and a more welcoming country. We must be young dreamers who fight to make their dreams come true,” the Angolan-born Archbishop, who started his Episcopal Ministry in January 2004 as Auxiliary Bishop of Luanda said.

He continued, “Young people, who seek to have your own home and a job, who study at night after a long day of work, who support your parents and care for your siblings, look for a job that pays better and where you are respected. Do not surrender to the disoriented, uncontrolled, and frantic pursuit of other ‘breads’ that do not give life.”

Archbishop Dias also addressed the issue of ethical challenges in academic and professional settings, calling on young students, particularly those in Catholic schools, to maintain their integrity and resist unethical practices, even when faced with pressure or temptation.

“Listen carefully, including Catholic Schools: you, who study and suffer, facing harassment and various pressures that force you to give a ‘bribe’ despite your competence, who often see others gaining temporary advantages and feel inclined to do the same,” the Local Ordinary of Luanda said.

In his homily, the Archbishop reaffirmed the critical role that young Catholics play in shaping the future, describing them as “pilgrims of hope” who bear the responsibility of leading humanity towards new, better days. 

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He reminded the youth that their journey is not just about personal success, but about making a meaningful difference in the world.

“Youth is a moment rich in faith, reason, boldness, courage, and hope,” the Archbishop of Luanda said, and added, “This stage of life is the first fruits of existence, the springtime of life, the period when the soul begins to understand itself better. It is the moment when we begin to reflect more deeply on life and seek answers to everything around us.”

Archbishop Dias encouraged the youth who participated in the August 7-11 festival to “embrace their faith, overcome the challenges they face, and strive for a future rooted in Christian values and the pursuit of genuine human dignity.”

João Vissesse is an Angolan Journalist with a passion and rich experience in Catholic Church Communication and Media Apostolate.