Pontiff pays tribute to deceased Mozambican Cardinal Langa

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Pope Leo has expressed condolences following the death of Cardinal Júlio Duarte Langa, Bishop Emeritus of Xai-Xai, Mozambique, describing him as a devoted shepherd who served the Church with dedication.

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Cardinal Langa died on August 3 at the age of 98, after leading the Xai-Xai Diocese for about 28 years.

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According to a post obtained from the Vatican’s X handle on Wednesday, in a telegram addressed to the Apostolic Administrator of Xai-Xai, Capuchin Franciscan Archbishop Francisco Chimoio, the Pope conveyed his spiritual closeness to the bishops of Mozambique, the late cardinal’s family, the diocese he served, and the entire country.

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The Pope said he offered “spiritual closeness and condolences to the bishops of Mozambique, to the family of this beloved brother, to the diocese he served with dedication, and to the entire country as it mourns the loss of such an illustrious shepherd.”

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Pope Leo praised Cardinal Langa’s long life and priestly service, saying his ministry was a blessing to Mozambique and the universal Church.

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At a time of grief, but “above all, of hope,” the Pope said he thanked God for “Dom Júlio’s long life and for the grace of his priesthood for Mozambique and the universal Church.”

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Reflecting on Cardinal Langa’s pastoral work, Pope Leo said the late cardinal served his flock with humility, commitment and perseverance.

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“Faithful to Jesus, his Teacher and Lord, he learned from Him the art of closeness in the pastoral care of souls, devoting himself with simplicity, zeal and perseverance to the flock entrusted to him,” Pope Leo said.

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The Pope added that Cardinal Langa remained steadfast in the face of challenges and used difficult moments as opportunities to promote peace and reconciliation.

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“He did not allow himself to be discouraged by difficulties, but saw in those very difficulties places thirsting for the Good News, particularly when it became necessary to proclaim the Gospel of peace and reconciliation for a future of fraternity among all Mozambicans,” he said.

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