Algiers, ALGERIA – Pope Leo XIV arrived in Algeria on Monday, April 13, 2026, marking the start of his historic apostolic journey to Africa with a visit to the Grand Mosque of Algiers.
Okay News gathered that the visit to the world’s third-largest mosque was a powerful gesture of interfaith dialogue and peacebuilding.
Welcomed by the Mosque’s Rector, Mohamed Mamoun al Qasim, the Pope described the site as a sacred space that “belongs to God.” He expressed deep personal ties to Algeria, calling it the “land of my spiritual father,” in reference to St. Augustine of Hippo, the renowned Catholic theologian born in what is now modern-day Algeria.
During his address, the Pope emphasized the shared responsibility of all faiths to recognize the “image of God” in every person, which he said is the foundation for mutual respect and coexistence. He toured the massive complex, which features the world’s tallest minaret at 267 meters, and spent time in silent meditation.
Signing the Book of Honor, the Pope wrote: “May the mercy of the Most High keep the noble Algerian people and the entire human family in peace and freedom.” The visit comes at a time of heightened global tension, providing a stark contrast to recent political disputes over military conflicts and migration.
The Pope is scheduled to continue his journey on Tuesday, April 14, with a visit to the archaeological site of Hippo and a Holy Mass in Annaba, as he continues to promote his message of reconciliation and forgiveness across the continent.
