Mozambique’s second native cardinal who served at the height of war as bishop dies at 98

Cardinal Júlio Duarte Langa, the second native cardinal in Mozambique and archbishop emeritus of the Diocese of Xai-Xai, has passed away at the age of 98.

XAI-XAI, Mozambique — Cardinal Júlio Duarte Langa, the second native cardinal in Mozambique and archbishop emeritus of the Diocese of Xai-Xai, has passed away at the age of 98.

Langa died on Monday, Aug. 3, at Maputo Central Hospital, the Episcopal Conference of Mozambique (CEM) announced in a statement.

“As he completes his earthly pilgrimage, CEM gives thanks to God for the life and ministry of Cardinal Langa, who dedicated himself faithfully to the service of the Catholic Church in Mozambique, particularly in the Diocese of Xai-Xai,” CEM members said in the statement.

They urged the people of God to “unite in prayer for the eternal repose of his soul.”

“Further information concerning the funeral rites and celebrations will be communicated by the CEM in due course,” the Catholic bishops added.

Born in Mangunze, Gaza Province, in October 1927, Langa was ordained a priest in June 1957.

In 1976, Pope Paul VI appointed him the first bishop of the newly established Diocese of Xai-Xai, where he served for more than two decades amid war, social upheaval, and the difficult task of pastoral reconstruction.

During those years, he promoted the pastoral life of the diocese and paid special attention to communities affected by the conflict as well as by epidemics and natural disasters.

In addition to his pastoral work, the late cardinal stood out for his knowledge of local languages. He participated in the edition of the translation of the texts of the Second Vatican Council into the main languages of Mozambique, contributing to their dissemination among the country’s Catholic communities.

After his retirement in July 2004, he remained closely connected to the diocese and continued to be regarded as a respected figure known for his simplicity, pastoral presence, and fidelity to the Gospel.

Langa’s elevation to the College of Cardinals by the late Pope Francis in February 2015 marked a historic moment for Mozambique, making him the second Mozambican cardinal.

With his passing, the College of Cardinals now consists of 240 cardinals, of whom 116 are electors and 124 are non-electors.

This story was first published by ACI Africa, the sister service of EWTN News in Africa, and has been adapted by EWTN News.