On the second day of his Apostolic Journey to Algeria, Pope Leo XIV traveled to Annaba, the site of the ancient city of Hippo, where St. Augustine once served as bishop.

After touring the archaeological site, the Pope visited residents at the Ma Maison Care Home for the Elderly, run by the Little Sisters of the Poor.

There, he spent time with several elderly residents, offering words of comfort and encouragement.

In a brief address, Pope Leo XIV reminded those present that “God dwells here,” emphasizing that “wherever there is love and service, God is there.”

He expressed particular gratitude to Salah Bouchemel, a Muslim resident, whose words highlighted the mutual respect and harmony experienced within the home despite religious differences.

Responding warmly, the Pope noted that God surely recognizes the hope found in a place where people strive to live together in fraternity.

The care home also hosts Paul Desfarges, the former Archbishop who served as Bishop of Constantine-Hippone from 2008 to 2021, and who now resides with the Little Sisters of the Poor.

Earlier, at the Basilica of Our Lady of Africa in Algiers, marking the final event of his first day in the country, Pope Leo XIV encouraged Algeria’s Christian community to remain rooted in “prayer, charity and unity.”

He praised their quiet witness and urged them to continue being a sign of peace and fraternity in society.

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