Religious Zeal Must Not Come at Expense of Family Responsibilities: Angolan Bishop

Bishop Maurício Agostinho Camuto of the Diocese of Caxito cautioned Catholics in Angola against letting religious activities cause them to neglect their families. During a Mass at St. Anne’s Cathedral on September 27, he told the congregation that religious commitment should strengthen family life rather than undermine it.

Bishop Camuto specifically warned mothers and wives against spending excessive time in Church activities at the expense of caring for their husbands and children. He noted that some husbands have considered separating from their wives because they spend more time at the Church than at home. He stated that Jesus does not require people to spend more time in the Church than they do caring for their families.

To address this, the bishop called for better formation and accompaniment for members of Church movements and apostolic groups. He urged these groups to focus on teaching catechism and ensuring members participate in the sacramental life of the Church so they do not live aimlessly.