Algerian Radio
The Archbishop of Algiers, Cardinal Jean-Paul Vesco, highlighted this Monday the exceptional significance of Pope Leo XIV's upcoming visit to Algeria. Placed under the theme "As-salamu alaykum," the Cardinal presented this event as a historic moment that is simultaneously "symbolic," "spiritual," and "political."
Speaking on the program "L’invité du jour" on Algerian Radio’s Channel 3, the Cardinal emphasized that the Pope is "a man of peace," insisting on the urgency of this message in an international context increasingly marked by conflict.
He noted that "today, war is becoming fashionable again" and that "the world is witnessing a questioning of international law and the mechanisms intended to preserve peace." He asserted that "believers must act as consciences that call for peace," transcending religious differences.
"This visit goes far beyond the religious framework"
For Jean-Paul Vesco, the Pope’s arrival constitutes "an event of particular significance, not only for the Church but for the entire Algerian people." He explained that the Pope "is coming for the Algerians," thereby emphasizing that "this visit goes far beyond the religious framework."
"The sovereign pontiff will address Christians, Muslims, and the youth alike, in a spirit of openness and dialogue," the Cardinal stated, underscoring "the importance of the words that will be spoken from Algeria, a country at the crossroads of cultures and civilizations."
Jean-Paul Vesco further noted that "the official invitation from the President of the Republic, Abdelmadjid Tebboune, testifies to the diplomatic dimension of this visit." He reminded listeners that "the Pope, as both a head of state and a religious leader, is responding to an invitation that carries profound meaning in a world often defined by divisions."
The Cardinal also shared that he had personally encouraged this visit since the Pope's election, recounting how he told him, "You must be the first Pope to come to Algeria"—an invitation to which the Pope responded favorably.
"This visit highlights Algeria’s plural identity"
According to the Archbishop, beyond the event itself, this visit shines a light on Algeria’s plural identity. The Cardinal spoke of a country "positioned on the Mediterranean rim," at the intersection of influences between North and South, East and West. He also recalled "the historical heritage linked to Saint Augustin, a major figure of Christianity born on this land." This historical depth, he added, "confers an additional symbolic dimension to the papal visit, inscribing the event within a cultural and spiritual continuity."
For the Cardinal, "the Pope’s itinerary reflects this symbolic richness through highly significant visits, notably to the Mémorial du Martyr (Martyrs' Monument), the Grande Mosquée d'Alger, and Notre-Dame d'Afrique." He explained that this path "makes sense" as it embodies "national memory," "the majority Muslim faith," and "the Christian presence," while emphasizing that "this is possible; this is lived," referring to a real coexistence based on mutual respect and recognition.
"The Pope’s presence at the Martyrs' Monument is a powerful gesture"
The historical dimension was also addressed through the lens of colonial memory and the struggle for independence. The Cardinal recognized that "the Pope’s presence at the Mémorial du Martyr constitutes a powerful gesture," asserting that this site symbolizes "the soul of a people" and their attachment to freedom. He insisted on "the necessity of naming the wounds of the past," declaring that "the colonial fact in itself is destructive, it is criminal," while calling for moving beyond tensions to build a lasting fraternity.
Jean-Paul Vesco also shared a personal reflection on his own identity, having lived in Algeria for over twenty years and acquired Algerian nationality. "I love this country," he confided, describing "a sense of belonging built over time, marked by a deep relationship with Algerian society." He spoke of a "Franco-Algerian" identity lived as a source of richness, allowing for a different perspective on history and relations between peoples. He noted that "the same facts were not experienced in the same way," highlighting the memory gaps between the two shores of the Mediterranean.
A call for global fraternity
Finally, the Cardinal emphasized the human and fraternal dimension of this visit. He preferred to speak of "esteem" and "respect" rather than mere cohabitation, asserting that "the world is dying from a lack of fraternity." In his view, "this event will demonstrate that authentic relations can exist between people of different cultures and religions," expressing hope that this visit will leave a lasting mark.
