BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
LOMAHASHA – His Majesty King Mswati III, through Prince Guduza, reaffirmed Eswatini’s longstanding friendship with the United States as America marked the 250th anniversary of its Independence, while Pope Leo XIV used the occasion to urge citizens to let faith strengthen responsible citizenship, justice and service to the common good.
The Pope delivered the message to the American people on July 3, 2026, in a letter dated June 25 from the Vatican commemorating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the United States Declaration of Independence.
He described the historic milestone as an opportunity not only to celebrate the nation’s achievements but also to reflect on the responsibilities citizens owe to one another and to future generations.
His message carries particular significance for Eswatini, where the Roman Catholic Church remains one of the country’s major Christian denominations and continues to contribute to education, healthcare and social development.
Pope Leo XIV said authentic faith should never be separated from civic responsibility. Instead, he said, it gives fresh strength to the pursuit of justice, peace and the common good, encouraging Christians to faithfully serve both God and their country.
Quoting Pope Leo XIII, he said there is “no better citizen than the Christian who is mindful of his duty”, urging Catholics to be agents of love, unity and positive change within society.
Faith, as defined in Scripture, is also a central theme in Christian teaching. In Hebrews 11:1, the Bible states: “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”
This verse, shared across Christian traditions including the Roman Catholic Church, is often used to explain that faith means trusting in God’s promises even when they are not yet visible. It reinforces the Pope’s message that faith is not only belief, but also a guiding force that inspires responsible citizenship, service, and hope in society.
The Pontiff also reaffirmed the Church’s teaching on the God-given dignity of every human person, calling for the protection of human life from conception until natural death. He appealed for greater compassion towards the poor, the vulnerable, the suffering and migrants, saying that welcoming and protecting those seeking safety and opportunity is both an act of charity and a recognition of human dignity.
Highlighting religious freedom as one of America’s defining principles, Pope Leo XIV said the freedom to worship according to one’s conscience has enabled peaceful coexistence among diverse communities while allowing the Catholic Church to flourish through its contributions to education, healthcare and social services.
He further called on nations and communities to work together to confront today’s global challenges, saying no individual or country can overcome them alone and that building a better future requires shared responsibility, courage and solidarity.
The Pope concluded by praying that the ideals of freedom, justice, opportunity and democracy would continue to guide the United States while encouraging Americans to strengthen their communities, respect their differences and work towards a more perfect union.
His message comes as Eswatini continues to strengthen its longstanding ties with the United States. During celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of American Independence, held at the United States Embassy in Ezulwini on June 25, His Majesty King Mswati III was represented by Prince Guduza.
Delivering the King’s message, Prince Guduza reaffirmed Eswatini’s longstanding bilateral relationship with the United States, saying the Kingdom remains a genuine partner committed to building a future of shared prosperity with Washington.
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