Caritas Angola to Develop Community-Led Responses to Poverty, Exclusion

The programme places communities at the centre of decisions concerning the social interventions that Caritas Angola is to undertake.

A key reflection on the opening day is to examine the theme, “Building Paths of Resilience with the Poor in the Light of Pope Leo XIV’s Apostolic Exhortation Dilexi Te.”

The presentation is expected to consider the Church’s social mission in relation to the challenges confronting poor and vulnerable populations.

Sr. Lydia said the Council would also examine proposals concerning the Statutes of Caritas Angola, its Strategic and Improvement plans, the Internal Regulations of the General Directorate, the Code of Ethics and Conduct, and the Procedures Manual.

The Mexican-born member of the Sisters Hospitallers of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (HSC) said participants would establish priority actions for 2026–2028 through the Improvement Plan and for 2027–2031 through the Strategic Plan.

Diocesan Caritas representatives are also expected to share initiatives that could inform the organization’s future interventions.

The five principal activities undertaken by the regions and the General Directorate over the past two years are to be presented during the Council. They include initiatives associated with the Third Sunday of Lent, Caritas Day and National Solidarity Week.

The gathering is scheduled to begin on Friday, August 21, at the Spirituality House of the Mercedarian Sisters of Charity (HMC) in Luanda.

Bishop António Lungieki Pedro Bengui, Auxiliary Bishop of Luanda and President of Caritas Angola, is to preside over the opening Mass.

The opening ceremony is to include the constitution and presentation of the Presidium, the introduction of participants and guests, and welcoming remarks from Bishop Emílio Sumbelelo of the Catholic Diocese of Viana.