Le Pape Léon XIV érige le modèle sénégalais en « trésor pour l’humanité »
Pope Leo XIV received a large interreligious delegation from Senegal at the Apostolic Palace on Friday, May 9. Presenting Senegal as a "model of peaceful coexistence," the Holy Father praised a fraternity that transcends the borders of Africa.
This private audience, organized at the initiative of Leo XIV, brought together the heads of the major Muslim brotherhoods and high-ranking representatives of the Catholic Church in Senegal. The meeting took place in a symbolic context, the day after the first anniversary of the election of the Sovereign Pontiff, celebrated on May 8.
A delegation representative of national diversity
The group was composed of the major figures of the country's religious families. For the Muslim community, those present included: Thierno Ahmadou Ba (khalifa of Bambilor), accompanied by Demba Thilel Diallo, Mohamed Lam and Younousse Diallo; Imam Issa Ba of Gorée; Mountaga Tall (khalifa of the family of Thierno Habibou Mountaga Daha Tall); Alassane Niang (Omarienne family); Cheikh Saliou Mbacké (representative of the general khalifa of the Mourides to the Church); Mame Libasse Laye Thiaw (Layenne family) and Abdoulaye Wane (Niassène family).
The Catholic delegation was led by His Excellency Archbishop André Gueye, Metropolitan Archbishop of Dakar and President of the Episcopal Commission for Interreligious Dialogue. He was accompanied by Father Joseph Maïssa Gueye, Father Zacharie Ndione (Provincial of the Holy Ghost Fathers), and Father Alphonse Ndour. His Excellency Mr. Isidore Sene, Ambassador of Senegal to the Holy See, as well as members of the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue, completed the delegation.
Senegal, the land of "Teranga" and dialogue
In his address, the Pope paid a vibrant tribute to Senegal, describing it as a "land of enduring family ties and conviviality." For Leo XIV, this harmony among believers of different traditions is a global treasure. "This treasure of fraternity is a precious asset not only for your nation, but for all humanity," he declared, emphasizing that it is everyone's responsibility to safeguard it carefully.
Speaking of his recent travels, the Pope firmly condemned all forms of discrimination and persecution. He called for the rejection of "any instrumentalization of God's name for military, economic, or political ends." For the Pontiff, the future of the world rests on religious diplomacy founded on peace, justice, and truth.
The spirit of the meeting was expressed through an exchange of highly symbolic gifts. The Pope presented each participant with a commemorative medal marking their first year as Pope. For his part, Bishop André Gueye offered a painting depicting a map of Senegal adorned with a minibus and a pirogue, while Thierno Ahmadou Ba presented the Holy Father with a bronze lion.
The day concluded with a guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica. Under the ancient vaults, Christians and Muslims from Senegal shared a moment of reflection, praying together for peace and unity in a world searching for fraternal landmarks.
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