Bishops are calling for justice following a massacre at a Catholic church in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The attack resulted in numerous casualties, prompting widespread condemnation. The bishops are urging authorities to investigate the incident thoroughly and bring the perpetrators to justice. The massacre has raised concerns about the safety of religious institutions and the ongoing conflict in the region.
4 months ago
Bishops in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are demanding justice following a massacre at a Catholic church in the Diocese of Bunia that left over 40 people killed or injured 2 3. The attack, perpetrated by the Islamic State-linked Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) group, occurred on July 26-27 at Blessed Anuarite Parish 2 3. Thirty-seven young people were killed and six others wounded while participating in a vigil marking the 25th anniversary of the Eucharistic Crusades movement 2 3.
The National Bishops’ Conference of Congo (CENCO) issued an official statement on July 28, expressing profound dismay at the "hateful massacre" of innocent faithful 2 3. The bishops highlighted that the province has been under a state of siege for several years, yet murders and kidnappings persist without credible explanation or clear identification of those responsible 2 3. They questioned who benefits from these long-standing crimes against peaceful citizens 2 3.
Bishop Dieudonné Uringi of Bunia reported widespread trauma among the population following the massacre 2 3. He lamented the inadequate and delayed response from law enforcement, noting that police and military were nearby but failed to intervene promptly 2 3. Despite the prevailing insecurity, Bishop Uringi continues his pastoral duties, traveling monthly to administer sacraments 2 3. He also appealed to Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) for support for young priests displaced by the violence, as many have sought refuge in Bunia without means of sustenance 2 3. The DRC is the 10th largest recipient of aid from ACN 2 3.
The massacre at Blessed Anuarite Parish occurred just one week after the desecration of the parish church of Lopa, also in the Diocese of Bunia 2 3. The bishops' call for a thorough investigation underscores a broader pattern of insecurity and violence in the region, which has seen numerous massacres and kidnappings over several years 2 3.
What is the Church's role in confronting evil?
The Church's role in confronting evil is multifaceted, encompassing a spiritual struggle against sin and the spirit of evil, a commitment to serving those afflicted by suffering, and the proclamation of hope and redemption through Christ .
The Church recognizes that a deeper evil exists, which is the war against sin and the spirit of evil that enslaves humanity . Jesus' miracles are understood as signs of the complete healing of the person, which always begins from the heart, demonstrating His authority to forgive sins . The Church, embracing sinners while being holy and always in need of purification, follows the path of penance and renewal . It is given strength by the risen Lord to overcome sorrows and challenges, both internal and external, through patience and love .
Inspired by Christ's example, the Church makes every effort to serve those most in need, including children, the poor, the handicapped, and the sick . Jesus identified Himself with the hungry, thirsty, ill, and imprisoned, showing that for God, service to humanity is more important than the material observance of the law . The Church considers it a duty and privilege to stand by suffering individuals and to nurture a preferential love for the sick . This service is not merely humanitarian but an eminently evangelical activity, imitating the Good Samaritan who had compassion and cared for the suffering . The Church seeks to reflect God's love for humanity through its mission of solace .
The Church proclaims a message of hope to those who suffer, whether physically or spiritually . It teaches that suffering can have a positive meaning, as each person is called to participate in the salvific suffering of Christ and the joy of resurrection, thereby becoming a force for the sanctification and building up of the Church . This good news gains credibility when it is lived out through a testimony of life by those who care for the sick and suffering, as well as by the suffering themselves who become more conscious of their role within the Church . Through the hands and hearts of its followers, and in the word of God and the sacraments, Christ continues to touch those who suffer, inviting them to share in the Church's mission . The Church, "like a stranger in a foreign land, presses forward amid the persecutions of the world and the consolations of God," announcing the cross and death of the Lord until His return .