Brazilian Catholic Archbishop Honored for Mission in Mozambique’s Embattled Cabo Delgado Province

In brief

The State University of Londrina (UEL) awarded an honorary doctorate to Archbishop Luiz Fernando Lisboa on September 15. The ceremony took place at the Cyro Grossi Auditorium on the university campus in Londrina, Paraná.

Archbishop Lisboa, who serves as the bishop of the Diocese of Cachoeiro de Itapemirim, received the Doctor Honoris Causa title in recognition of his missionary service in Mozambique. His work included leading the Diocese of Pemba in the Cabo Delgado province, a region affected by conflict.

During his acceptance speech, Archbishop Lisboa dedicated the honor to the missionaries, pastoral workers, and Christian communities in Mozambique who continue to serve despite poverty, war, displacement, and violence. He stated that he accepts the title on behalf of those who left their homes and safety to serve others, including Mozambican priests, sisters, and laypeople. He also called for renewed commitment to human dignity and respect for Africa.