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Pope's open-air Mass in Douala draws over 120,000 worshippers
Pope Leo XIV celebrated an open-air Mass in Cameroon's economic hub, Douala, on Friday, attracting the largest gathering of his 11-day African tour. The event marked the fifth day of his visit to the continent, following stops in Algeria and Cameroon's conflict-ridden Anglophone region.
Peace and unity dominate Pope's message
Addressing the crowd at Japoma Stadium, the Pope reiterated his call for peace, urging young people to reject violence and corruption. "Reject every form of abuse or violence, which deceives by promising easy gains but hardens the heart and makes it insensitive," he said. "Do not let yourselves be corrupted by temptations that waste your energies and do not serve the progress of society."
Many attendees, some of whom camped overnight for prime spots, expressed hope for an end to Cameroon's decade-long rebellion. Worshippers braved sweltering heat, using umbrellas and books as shade while raising their hands in prayer.
Pope warns of AI's societal risks
In a speech at the Catholic University of Central Africa in Yaoundé, the Pope cautioned against the dangers of artificial intelligence, warning it fuels polarization and conflict. "When simulation becomes normal, people lose touch with reality," he said. "We come to live in bubbles, impermeable to one another. Feeling threatened by anyone who is different, we grow unaccustomed to encounters and dialogue."
He also criticized the exploitation of Africa's rare earth minerals, essential for electronics and AI development, calling it a "relentless pursuit of raw materials."
Tour highlights: Healthcare and interfaith dialogue
During his visit to Douala, the Pope toured St. Paul Catholic Hospital, emphasizing the Church's role in healthcare. Earlier in the week, he made history as the first Pope to visit Algeria, a Muslim-majority nation, underscoring his commitment to interfaith harmony.
Next stops: Angola and Equatorial Guinea
The Pope's African tour continues Saturday in Angola, concluding in Equatorial Guinea before his return. His visit has drawn global attention to the continent's social and political challenges, as well as its spiritual vitality.
