Pope: Benin trip highlighted Africa’s joy, faith

    Pope Benedict XVI said his second trip to Africa left him convinced that the joy and faith of the continent’s people – especially the young – represent a hope for all humanity.
    The pope made the remarks at his general audience Nov. 23, three days after returning from a weekend visit to Benin in West Africa, where he unveiled a major document on the future of the church on the continent.
    The pope said the visit, in particular the “unforgettable” Mass he celebrated for 50,000 people in a Cotonou stadium, showed that faith in Christ is capable of uniting generations and responding to their expectations.
    “Through the joy and enthusiasm of the entire population, especially the children who represent the future, one could see the freshness of the ‘yes’ to life and the perception of reality in its connection with God,” he said.
    He said his meeting with schoolchildren in Ouidah was a highlight of the visit, demonstrating that Africa has a “reserve supply of vitality” that will help Catholics in their task of evangelizing. His document, he said, was designed to help Catholics live their faith fully and become builders of communion, peace and justice in their societies.
    The pope addressed about 7,000 people in the Paul VI audience hall, reviewing the trip in detail and greeting pilgrims in 10 languages. His words of greeting to a group of Gypsy peoples from Hungary drew a lively round of applause.
– VATICAN CITY (CNS)