Pope Leo XIV concluded his apostolic journey to Algeria on the afternoon of Tuesday, April 14, in the city of Annaba, where Saint Augustine once served as bishop. The stop carried symbolic weight for Leo XIV, who has followed in the footsteps of his spiritual mentor. His Mass was celebrated in the presence of a large African community.

Among the faithful who came to listen to Leo XIV in Annaba were many students from Burundi, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, along with numerous missionary priests from Africa and several nuns from the continent. It was to this African church present in Algeria that the Pope addressed his message during the ceremony.

Leo XIV spoke about the difficulties these Christians sometimes face, especially those related to living in a predominantly Muslim country. These believers are not always understood, but the pontiff sought to encourage them, saying: “Remain as you are—humble and in the love of Christ. Bear witness to the Gospel through simple actions, sincere relationships, and dialogue lived day by day.”

Fraternity was a central theme of the Pope’s day, reflected earlier on Tuesday in his visit to a nursing home run by the Little Sisters of the Poor.