Bishop Osório Citora Afonso of Quelimane Diocese in Mozambique has called on the people of God to live this year’s Holy Week with a spirit of solidarity, particularly with those affected by devastating floods and ongoing violence in the countries northern province of Cabo Delgado.
By João Vissesse *
In a message issued March 28, Bishop Osório Afonso who is also secretary of the Episcopal Conference of Mozambique (CEM), emphasized that Christian faith must be expressed through compassion and concrete acts of support for those in distress.
“The celebration of Holy Week should be marked by a spirit of solidarity, especially toward those affected by the recent floods and the conflict in Cabo Delgado,” he said.
Reflecting on the hardships many communities face, Bishop Afonso said it is impossible to celebrate the central mysteries of Christianity while ignoring the painful realities endured by the people.
He pointed to the destruction caused by floods – homes lost, lives cut short – as well as the fear and displacement brought about by armed conflict in Cabo Delgado.
“These situations make visible the cross that many of our brothers and sisters carry every day,” the Mozambican member of the Institute of Consolata Missionaries (IMC) said, adding that Christ remains present in human suffering.
Bishop Osório Afonso further said, “Christ walks with us. In the cross, we see the pain of families who have lost everything, the cries of children, and the exhaustion of those trying to rebuild their lives.”
The Catholic Church leader noted that even in the midst of pain, the hope of the Resurrection shines through. He urged the people of God to deepen their commitment to prayer for peace, reconciliation, and comfort for those affected.
Bishop Afonso called on Christians to turn their faith into action by supporting the most vulnerable through visits, assistance, and acts of charity. He reminded them that “the final word does not belong to death, but to life.”
The Catholic Bishop further emphasized that Holy Week should renew the Church’s mission to be close to the people, more compassionate, and committed to defending human dignity.
“United with the cross of Christ, we are also called to share in the joy of His resurrection,” he said.
Bishop Afonso encouraged Christian communities to respond concretely to the needs of victims of both natural disasters and conflict, promoting reconciliation and solidarity as essential expressions of faith in action. Describing Holy Week as more than a liturgical observance, he said it is also a time of engagement and service.
He urged not only the religious but society as a whole to translate prayer into tangible support, including material and psychological assistance for affected families.
“The central message of this liturgical season is the hope that springs from the cross and the resurrection of Christ,” he said.
* João Vissesse is an Angolan Journalist working with Catholic Church Communication and Media Apostolate.
