Caritas Day 2025 in Angola: Catholic Bishop Urges Active Participation in Caritas’ Mission of Charity

He encouraged unity in the mission, urging collaboration with institutions, organizations, and individuals to provide support to the needy. 

“May our solidarity form a network of support that includes everyone, without exception,” the Caritas Angola President said.

He went on to underscore the need for global solidarity that transcends geographical and cultural boundaries, saying, “Solidarity is not confined to a city, a country, or a culture. We are all part of the human family, and the needs of our brothers and sisters extend beyond geographical barriers.”

Bishop António urged Christians to reflect on their role in fostering solidarity. He said, “I urge everyone to ask themselves, ‘How can I be more charitable in my daily life? How can I improve my actions to become a true instrument of charity and transformation? May we allow God's grace to shape us into true disciples of Christ, ready to bring hope to those who suffer.”

Reflecting on mercy, the Catholic Church leader noted, “True charity begins in the heart. When we are touched by God’s mercy, our lives are transformed, and we begin to see others through the eyes of Christ.”

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He also encouraged engagement in international solidarity, calling upon Christians to extend their concern to communities facing war, hunger, and persecution. “Caritas, as a global network, calls us to act not only locally but internationally to alleviate suffering and promote peace,” Bishop António said.

The 51-year-old Angolan Bishop noted that every act of charity must respect human dignity. “Caritas affirms that every human being has value, as each person is created in the image and likeness of God,” he said.

He called for respect for those in need, not treating them as mere recipients of aid but as “brothers and sisters worthy of love and consideration.”

The Angolan Catholic Bishop also emphasized the importance of education in fostering a culture of solidarity. He said, “Caritas and the Church call us to be promoters of solidarity. I urge families, schools, and parishes to invest in teaching the next generation about sharing, serving others, and caring for the most vulnerable. True social change begins with the formation of the heart, and we must cultivate this culture at all levels of society.”

In his March 23 homily, Bishop António encouraged perseverance in hope despite challenges and injustices. 

“I urge everyone not to lose hope. Despite difficulties, solidarity reminds us that we are not alone. God is with us, and through charity, we can transform the world. May every act of solidarity, no matter how small, be a sign of hope for those in need,” he said.

The Auxiliary Bishop Consecrated in January 2022 also underscored the need to recognize the face of Christ in the poor and marginalized.

He said, “Jesus himself became poor so that we might understand that true wealth lies in giving, serving, and generosity. I urge everyone not only to acknowledge the needs of others but to respond with action.”

“May we be the helping hand, the support, and the voice that the poor desperately need to overcome their struggles,” Bishop António implored, adding, “May we live by the values of charity and solidarity, manifesting Christ’s love in our daily actions. May the light of faith guide us on the path of justice and love.”

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