Pope mourns Mozambican Cardinal Langa

Pope Francis has offered his condolences following the passing of Cardinal Júlio Duarte Langa, the Bishop Emeritus of Xai-Xai, Mozambique. Cardinal Langa died on August 3 at the age of 98, concluding a long life of service to the Church.

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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.

In a telegram addressed to Archbishop Francisco Chimoio, the Apostolic Administrator of Xai-Xai, the Pope conveyed his spiritual closeness to the bishops of Mozambique, Cardinal Langa's family, the diocese he led for approximately 28 years, and the entire country. He described the late cardinal as an "illustrious shepherd" whose ministry was a blessing.

Pope Francis praised Cardinal Langa's "long life and priestly service," thanking God for his grace and dedication. He reflected on the cardinal's pastoral work, noting that he served his flock with humility, commitment, and perseverance. The Pope highlighted Cardinal Langa's ability to learn "the art of closeness in the pastoral care of souls."

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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.

Furthermore, the Pope acknowledged Cardinal Langa's steadfastness in the face of challenges. He stated that the cardinal used difficult moments as opportunities to promote peace and reconciliation, "particularly when it became necessary to proclaim the Gospel of peace and reconciliation for a future of fraternity among all Mozambicans."

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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.