Catholic Church in Mozambique Challenged to be the Peacemaker in Country’s Post-Election Protests

“Now, more than ever, it is necessary to reaffirm the Church's commitment to peace, justice, human dignity, and building a more fraternal society,” the Mozambican-born member of the Institute of Consolata Missionaries (IMC) further said. 

He added, “We cannot let ourselves be dominated by partisan or ideological divisions that often alienate people rather than unite them.”

The Auxiliary Bishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Maputo in Mozambique observed that the Church's mission also involves helping people discern in their choices, a well as understanding that politics is “not a field for personal interests” but a space for serving the common good. 

Such an attitude, he says, “requires ongoing moral and political conscience formation, helping individuals see beyond fleeting political promises to grasp what is truly at stake for society’s and future generations’ welfare.”

The Catholic Church leader, who was consecrated Auxiliary Bishop of Maputo Archdiocese on January 28 said, “In the electoral context, the Church must be a space for reconciliation, especially in the post-election period. Jesus, in passing through Samaria, broke barriers and brought salvation to those considered 'outsiders,' showing that God's mercy knows no boundaries.”

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He continued, “Similarly, after a period of political division, the Church must promote unity, welcome all, and offer a message of hope and renewal.”

“In a post-election period, the Church should guide the faithful to reflect on justice, peace, and the common good—central themes of Christian life,” the 52-year-old Catholic Bishop further said.

He said that just as Jesus sat by the well to speak with the Samaritan woman, the Church must also be present in places of marginalization and difficult access, bringing God’s word to those in greatest need.

Bishop Osório said the Church must not be content with reaching only the “faithful”, but must strive to transform social, economic, and political realities, becoming a voice for justice, peace, and solidarity.

He said, “For the Church, this process is essential after elections: fostering personal and collective conversion to live a more just life, rooted in Christian values, and to be a witness to Christ’s love and peace in society.”