On the occasion of the 138th edition of the Marian pilgrimage of Popenguine, Bishop Jean-Baptiste Valter Manga delivered a homily full of hope and commitment, particularly inviting young Christians not to give in to fear in the face of the challenges of the contemporary world.

Drawing on the biblical account of the Annunciation in the Gospel of Luke, the prelate recalled that, after the angel's departure, the Virgin Mary remained alone, facing a mission that exceeded human capabilities. This solitude was marked by the trials, misunderstandings, and suffering that would punctuate her journey to the cross.

For Bishop Valter Manga, this experience with Mary resonates with that of believers today, who are also called to confront the darkness of daily life after moments of spiritual communion. "Do not be afraid," he emphasized, echoing the words addressed to Mary, before urging young people to remain witnesses of hope, justice, and peace in a changing society.

The Youth Olympic Games and the World Cup are on the agenda.

The bishop emphasized the need for Senegalese youth to actively participate in building the country and the Church through the values of transparency, fraternity, and dialogue. According to him, young people should not only seek employment, education, or security, but also cultivate hope, moral values, and trust.

With major international events like the Youth Olympic Games (YOG) and the Football World Cup approaching, he invited African youth to offer the world the image of an exemplary generation, open and deeply committed to civic duty.

Still in his homily, Bishop Jean Baptiste Valter Manga prayed that Our Lady of Deliverance of Popenguine would continue to be that mother who repairs social fractures and consolidates cohesion between the communities of Senegal.