Bishops in Angola Urged to Seek Balance Between Opulence and Poverty amid Growing Inequalities

The Angolan Catholic Bishop recounted how Jesus sent the Twelve apostles without provisions, fully trusting in divine providence, and urged the Bishops to adopt a similar trust in God.

“We, today, are sent to a land that suffers, where the wounds of war, poverty, exclusion, and marginalization remain open and bleeding,” he lamented.

Bishop Ndakalako called on his peers to be the first to heal the wounds within their communities.

“As bishops, we must be the first to heal these wounds, to touch suffering with the hands of Christ, and to announce peace and hope to the world,” the Catholic Church leader said.

He pointed out that their authority is not to elevate their own status but to serve those who are marginalized and have lost hope. 

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“Our power is to guide our brothers toward Christ, instill courage, transform their inner selves, and renew their hope. Our people cry out for justice, for peace, for dignity,” he said.

Bishop Ndakalako also spoke of the episodes of violence and despair that he said is affecting many Angolans, urging CEAST members to be proactive in promoting peace and justice as a demonstration of the Kingdom of God among the people. 

“Our mission is to announce that the kingdom has already begun, that the risen One walks alongside us, that the grace of God is present in our lives and operative amid tribulations,” he said.

Bishop Ndakalako underscored the need for CEAST members to immerse themselves in their mission. 

The Bishop reminded the other members of CEAST that the authority granted to them by Christ is not for domination but to announce God's Kingdom and offer hope to those in need. 

“The challenge is great, but the Lord did not send us helpless or despairing. He has given us the power to heal the wounds of the soul and body, to announce reconciliation, and to bring hope where there is despair,” the Local Ordinary of Menongue Diocese said.

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