Sister Olga Massango recalls helping organize Pope Francis' 2019 visit to Mozambique at a time when the country was still recovering from the deadly impact of Cyclone Idai, a visit she described as "really impactful".

Maputo

Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff, has died at age 88 from a cerebral stroke and subsequent heart failure, the Vatican said.

Pope Francis Dies

Pope Francis' visit to Mozambique was described by Sister Olga Massango, a Mozambican nun, as profound and impactful. The visit occurred when the country was grappling with the aftermath of Cyclone Idai, one of two cyclones that struck the nation, leaving severe devastation in its wake. Sister Olga observed that the cyclone’s destructive impact may have influenced the Pope's decision to visit, presumably to address critical issues such as ecology, corruption, and mutual coexistence.

Sister Olga, who helped organize Pope Francis' visit in 2019, highlighted the Pope’s simplicity and the depth of his messages. During his time in Mozambique, the Pope was noted for his direct and practical approach toward discussing matters of significant concern to the nation. His visit marked a significant moment for the locals, providing spiritual support and addressing critical social issues.

Pope Francis' focus during his visit reflected his ongoing commitment to promoting sustainable ecological practices, battling corruption, and fostering harmony within communities. His presence and speeches were seen as providing substantial moral support and encouragement for the nation during a challenging period.



Pope Francis was 'profound and concrete' says Mozambican nun

Pope Francis came in a moment really that people were crying. We had just two cyclones, but above all, Cyclone Idai. And I think it was Cyclone Idai that moved Pope Francis to come to Mozambique. And really to bring this message on ecology, on corruption, on the mutual coexistence. So it was, for me, it was really impactful. I remember Pope Francis, a very simple man, a man of prayer, but very profound. And also concrete, he doesn't, he's very direct, practical.

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Pope Francis Dies