Modernist Funeral Celebrates Apostate Cardinal Pengo

The Vatican News portal reports on the funeral of “Cardinal” Polycarp Pengo, “Archbishop” of Dar es Salaam, who died on 15 February 2026 and was buried on 28 February at the Pugu Pilgrimage Centre in Tanzania. The funeral Mass was “presided over” by “Archbishop” Jude Thaddaeus Ruwa’ichi, with burial rites led by “Cardinal” Fridolin Ambongo Besungu, President of the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM). Also present were other “cardinals” and “bishops” from across Africa, along with Tanzanian government officials, including Vice President Emmanuel Nchimbi. The homily by “Archbishop” Ruwa’ichi reflected on hope in the face of death, referencing the story of Lazarus and Christ’s promise, “I am the resurrection and the life.” Eulogies praised the deceased for his “firm moral convictions, defence of human dignity, and commitment to national unity,” with “Cardinal” Ambongo calling him “a prophet of human dignity and peace in Africa.” The “Apostolic Nuncio,” “Archbishop” Angelo Accattino, described him as “a gift to Tanzania and to the wider Church.” The article highlights his promotion of “small Christian communities,” “interreligious dialogue,” and the linking of “Christian moral teaching with social responsibility.”