Pope Leo Addresses 120,000 in Douala, Cameroon, Urging Rejection of Violence

Pope Leo delivered a mass in Douala, Cameroon, on Friday, calling on attendees to reject violence and show generosity despite hardships. Approximately 120,000 people gathered at Japoma Stadium, with some arriving a day early and sleeping overnight on mats to secure a spot. The event, part of a four-nation Africa tour, featured heavy security and crowds singing and dancing in the streets. In his speech, mostly in French with an English appeal, the pontiff highlighted material and spiritual poverty in Cameroon, urging against distrust and discouragement. He emphasized that violence offers false promises and hardens hearts. The pope's anti-war stance has previously drawn criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump. He traveled to Douala, the country's economic hub, by plane from the capital Yaounde.