In brief
More than 120,000 attendees joined Pope Leo XIV in Douala for a heartfelt open-air Mass during his African tour. The Pope emphasized peace and urged the youth to embrace their talents while rejecting violence and corruption. Amid the celebration, worshippers from diverse backgrounds came together in prayer, showcasing Cameroon’s strong communal bonds.
More than 120,000 people have joined Pope Leo XIV in Cameroon for an open-air Mass, the biggest crowd so far during his 11-day Africa tour.
Arriving in the economic city of Douala on Friday, the Pope reiterated his message of peace after visiting the country's Anglophone region hit by a decade-long rebellion on Thursday.
Jubilant crowds welcomed Pope Leo as he arrived at the Japoma Stadium. Standing in his vehicle, known as the Popemobile, the pontiff waved at the droves of people waiting for his entrance.
Some worshippers camped outside the premises on Thursday night in a bid to get a prime spot for the pontiff's address, with many having been there for more than 24 hours.
His message focused on spiritual matters, encouraging young people to diversify their talents and support their communities while rejecting forms of abuse. Do not let yourselves be corrupted by temptations that waste your energies and do not serve the progress of society, he urged.
As they raised their hands in prayer, some attendees utilized umbrellas to keep cool under the sun. With excitement and hope in the air, attendees expressed their happiness to connect with the Pope and their longing for peace in the nation.
Pope Leo's tour continues as he plans to visit Angola and Equatorial Guinea, marking a significant moment in his papacy.
