Angolan Catholic Bishop Warns Against Crime, Corruption, Calls for Peace in Communities

Bishop António Francisco Jaca of the Diocese of Benguela urged Christians in Angola to address rising crime, poverty, and corruption through justice and responsible parenting. During a homily at the concluding Mass of his pastoral visit to St. Peter Claver Parish on October 25, the bishop stated that social transformation begins within families. He said parents must educate children to become honest citizens who respect human life and commit to peace.

Bishop Jaca, a member of the Society of the Divine Word, noted that crime and violence disproportionately affect vulnerable people. He said communities must strengthen values of solidarity and respect to prevent criminal behavior from causing insecurity in neighborhoods. He also cautioned that religious participation is insufficient if it is not accompanied by changes in behavior, specifically regarding how Christians respond to injustice and violence.