Angolan Archbishop Calls for Reconciliation to Break Cycle of Hatred and Revenge at Fatima Pilgrimage in Portugal

In brief

Archbishop José Manuel Imbamba called for reconciliation and dialogue to end cycles of hatred and revenge during a pilgrimage Mass in Fátima, Portugal, on Sunday, September 13. Addressing hundreds of thousands of pilgrims at the Shrine of Cova da Iria, the Archbishop of Saurimo urged Christians to use forgiveness to address global conflicts and wars.

The Archbishop, who serves as the president of the Bishops' Conference of Angola and São Tomé and Príncipe, noted that many inhumane wars persist because people refuse to engage in dialogue. He told the crowd that the Christian concept of forgiveness is based on the unlimited mercy of God. He suggested that the same openness found in God's love and justice should define how individuals, families, and nations treat one another.

The Mass was part of the September International Anniversary Pilgrimage commemorating the apparitions of Our Lady of Fátima. Pilgrims traveled from various continents for the celebrations held from September 12 to 13.