James O'Reilly
This is one the most anticipated moments of the pope’s trip to Algeria: Pope Leo, an Augustinian, arrived in Annaba, ancient Hippo, to follow in the archaeological footsteps of Saint Augustine.
The weather was not cooperative, but despite the wind and rain, the pope walked through the ruins of the ancient Roman city. Among them was the Basilica of Peace, where St. Augustine carried out his ministry as bishop from 396 to 420.
There, after the pope laid a wreath of flowers, he then prayed in silence, his emotions clearly showing through.
After this, Pope Leo went to visit a home for the elderly, including Muslims. It is run by five nuns, the Little Sisters of the Poor, who care for those in need. The pope addressed them with these warm words:
POPE LEO XIV
There is hope. Yes, because God's heart is torn apart by wars, violence, injustice, and lies. But our Father's heart is not with the wicked, the arrogant, or the proud. God’s heart is with the little ones, with the humble, and with them He builds His Kingdom of love and peace day by day, just as you are striving to do here in your daily service, your friendship, and life together.
After this meeting, the pope shared a private lunch with the Augustinian religious, who are responsible for maintaining the Basilica of Saint Augustine, where Leo would celebrate Mass a few hours later.
