President Hakainde Hichilema joined worshippers at the Cathedral of the Child Jesus in Long Acres, Lusaka, to attend a solemn Requiem Mass held in honour of His Holiness, Pope Francis.
In a heartfelt tribute, President Hichilema described Pope Francis as a “moral beacon of our time,” a “tireless servant of God,” and a “fearless advocate for justice, peace, and human dignity.” He reflected on the Pope’s extraordinary life of service, compassion, and leadership.
HH on Pope Francis
The President recalled that soon after taking office, he made a deliberate pilgrimage to the Holy See — a gesture of gratitude to a man who embodied statesmanship, humility, and pastoral grace.
“Pope Francis broke down barriers, transcended race and ethnicity, and built bridges across faiths, cultures, and nations,” President Hichilema said. He noted that the Pope’s passionate calls for social justice and environmental stewardship deeply aligned with Zambia’s own national values and aspirations.
“As we celebrate his life and enduring legacy, may we be inspired to become instruments of peace, unity, compassion, and mercy in our communities and beyond,” the President urged.
President Hichilema also conveyed Zambia’s solidarity with the Catholic Church and the global community of faith during this time of mourning, praising Pope Francis for his humble leadership, unwavering commitment to the marginalized, and his timeless message of unity and hope.
“May his soul rest in eternal peace,” President Hichilema concluded.
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