By Wesley Omondi
VATICAN CITY, OCTOBER 5, 2024 (CISA) — Pope Francis has expressed his deep condolences to the people of Angola following the passing of Cardinal Alexandre do Nascimento, archbishop emeritus of Luanda, who died on Saturday, September 28, 2024. In a heartfelt telegram addressed to Archbishop Filomeno do Nascimento Vieira Dias of Luanda, the Holy Father paid tribute to the distinguished Cardinal’s life and service, particularly his dedication to his people during challenging times.
“Having learned of the death of the venerable brother Cardinal Alexandre do Nascimento, I wish to express to your Excellency, the auxiliary bishops, the clergy, the religious communities, and all the faithful of this Archdiocese, as well as the relatives and all those in Angola who mourn the passing of this distinguished pastor, the communion of my prayers,” Pope Francis stated in the telegram.
Cardinal Alexandre do Nascimento served as Archbishop of Luanda and was elevated to the College of Cardinals in 1983. He was well-known for his pastoral care, particularly during Angola’s tumultuous civil war, providing spiritual leadership and humanitarian assistance to those in need. His work, rooted in faith and hope, was recognized and appreciated not only by the Church but also by the wider international community.
“I remember the care given by dear Dom Alexandre to his flock in troubled and difficult times, having been for all an expression of the merciful face of Jesus, the Good Samaritan of humanity,” the Holy Father remarked.
The Pope also highlighted Cardinal do Nascimento’s unwavering courage and commitment to the common good. Throughout his life, the Cardinal was a staunch advocate for the poor and vulnerable, particularly through his work with Caritas International, the Church’s humanitarian arm.
“Faith in Christ and hope in eternal life made him a courageous and free man, capable of directing his steps in favour of the common good, and he even collaborated with this Apostolic See in his zeal in favour of the poorest and most needy, leading Caritas International,” Pope Francis noted.
As Angola mourns the loss of one of its most revered religious leaders, Pope Francis emphasized the Cardinal’s lasting legacy of compassion, service, and dedication to the Church. He expressed his gratitude for the work accomplished by Cardinal do Nascimento and called upon God’s mercy to welcome him into eternal life.
“For all that the Lord has accomplished in him and through him, I give thanks to God, imploring Him to envelop this faithful servant of His with the light of mercy and to open to him the doors of full life,” the Holy Father said.
The Pope concluded his message by imparting his blessing to all those attending the Cardinal’s funeral and extended his heartfelt sympathy to the clergy, the faithful, and the people of Angola.
“I impart my heartfelt blessing to all those taking part in the funeral,” Pope Francis stated, offering his final words of comfort during this period of mourning.
