NPR

Pope Francis Comes To Africa With A Vision. Will It Stick?

The pope is touring three countries in sub-Saharan Africa, calling for hope and reconciliation. Researchers look at the long-term impact of a papal visit.
Pope Francis waves as he arrives at Zimpeto Stadium in Maputo, Mozambique, on Thursday, where he led a public Mass.

This week, Pope Francis began a seven-day trip to Madagascar, Mauritius and Mozambique. On his second visit to sub-Saharan Africa, he hopes to offer comfort and rekindle unity in a region struggling with natural disasters, poverty and religious and political tensions.

He is being greeted with great enthusiasm. At a stadium in the capital city of Maputo, Mozambique, on Thursday, admirers stood up and , swaying to the beat of the drums, phones up to film his entrance. As he rode his popemobile down a street, just to touch his hand. And people as he visited the , which treats

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