Pope in Algeria: ‘God’s heart is torn apart by wars, violence, injustice, lies’

April 15, 2026: On the second day of his Apostolic Journey to Algeria, Pope Leo XIV travelled to Annaba, home to the ancient city of Hippo, where St Augustine once served as Bishop.

Following a visit to the archaeological site, the Pope spent time with elderly residents at the Ma Maison Care Home, operated by the Little Sisters of the Poor.

In a brief address, he reminded those present that “God dwells here,” adding that “wherever there is love and service, God is there.”

Pope Leo also expressed gratitude to Salah Bouchemel for his welcome remarks, in which the elderly Algerian Muslim resident highlighted the mutual respect and harmony among people of different faiths at the home.

Responding to this, the Pope noted that God recognises the hope present wherever people seek to live in fraternity.

“God’s heart is torn apart by wars, violence, injustice, and lies,” he said, adding, “But our Father’s heart is not with the wicked, the arrogant, or the proud.”

Instead, the Pope emphasised that God remains close to those who serve others and build His Kingdom.

“God’s heart is with the little ones and the humble,” he said, “and with them He builds up His Kingdom of love and peace day by day, just as you are striving to do here in your daily service, friendship, and life together.”

Pope Leo was welcomed by Archbishop Paul Desfarges, SJ, former Bishop of Constantine-Hippone (2008–2021), who now lives with the Little Sisters of the Poor.

The Archbishop praised the sisters and staff, noting that their attentive care—expressed even through simple gestures like a warm handshake—creates daily acts of kindness that bring people closer together.

In response, the Pope thanked Archbishop Desfarges and commended his example of living in close solidarity with the elderly residents.

He also recalled Jesus’ words (Lk 10:21), reflecting that the Father reveals His truths not to the wise and learned, but to the humble and childlike.

Concluding his address, Pope Leo XIV thanked the sisters and residents for their witness and presented them with a mosaic of the Risen Christ.

Courtesy: Vatican News