Pope Leo XIV received the President of the Republic of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, in the Vatican on November 8th. The cordial meeting reflected a spirit of mutual respect and a shared commitment to the moral and social good of the South African people.
According to the Holy See Press Office, both leaders expressed appreciation for the Catholic Church’s valuable contribution to South Africa, particularly in the fields of education and healthcare. They also recognized the Church’s ongoing efforts to foster dialogue and reconciliation in a nation still healing from its divisions and seeking to strengthen unity and peace.
The encounter underscored the Holy Father’s close attention to the African continent, coming just one day after his meeting with the International Foundation Religions and Societies, a group dedicated to improving Catholic education in Africa. Addressing the organization, Pope Leo encouraged educators to respond to what he called the “silent cries for help” of today’s youth, whose lives are often marked by spiritual and emotional fragility.
He praised their mission to form young Africans through quality education imbued with Christian values and a strong sense of cultural identity. The pope reminded them that accomplishing a mission requires teamwork, partnership, and solidarity. The Pope encouraged cooperation between Churches of the Global North and South, noting that evangelization thrives when Christians serve together in humility and love.
Pope Leo’s meeting with President Ramaphosa continued this theme of partnership. Both the Holy See and the South African government have long shared an interest in promoting peace, social harmony, and the dignity of every person. The Catholic Church in South Africa remains a steadfast presence in these efforts, operating thousands of schools and health centers that serve the poor and marginalized.
In his remarks to the educators earlier this week, the Pope expressed his hope that the Church in Africa might rediscover the “missionary impulse” that flows from the Gospel of Jesus Christ, proposing faith with courage and compassion. This same spirit of faith in action was reflected in his meeting with the South African leader, where dialogue and cooperation were once again placed at the heart of the Church’s mission.
Through both encounters, Pope Leo XIV highlighted a vision of Africa that is hopeful and deeply rooted in Christian witness. His appeal to educators, civic leaders, and the faithful alike was clear: to renew their commitment to forming hearts and communities capable of reconciliation, mercy, and peace in Christ.