Pope Leo XIV has taken to X (formerly known as Twitter) to reach out to African believers in Swahili, affirming the continent’s commitment to the global church and encouraging the faithful to live to their baptismal calling.
In a tweet that has captured attention of many Africans, he wrote;
“Bara la Afrika linatoa ushuhuda mkubwa kwa ulimwengu mzima. Asante kwa kuishi imani yenu katika Yesu Kristo. Ni jinsi gani ilivyo muhimu kwamba kila mbatizwa ajisikie kuitwa na Mungu kuwa ishara ya matumaini katika ulimwengu wa leo”
The use of the Swahili language , one of the most widely spoken languages on the African Continent , has been praised by many as a significant gesture of cultural respect and solidarity. It marks a historic move by the Vatican to engage African witnesses as “great testimony to the world.”
His words carried a strong message for Christians in general by recognizing their personal connection with God and to become a “sign” in today’s world. Religious leaders across East Africa have praised the Pope’s message as a call to action and deeper faith.
This message reflects Pope Leo XIV‘s broader vision of the global church that listens, includes and empowers all its members, especially those from the growing churches in Africa.
