Just prior to the historic visit of Pope Francis to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the bishops in DRC have once again expressed frustration at the escalating violence in the east of the country.
Rebels belonging to the March 23 Movement (M23) launched fresh attacks simultaneously on several localities on 25 May, against the Armed Forces of the DRC, including in the localities of Kibumba, Nyiragongo, Tchanzu, Runyoni, Kanombe, and Rutshuru, all in North Kivu Province. The latest fighting has forced nearly 100,000 people to flee from their homes, according to the United Nations.
“The Congolese people who have suffered a lot and whose tears continue to flow as a result of conflicts driven by political interests are preparing to welcome the Holy Father, Pope Francis in July, who is coming as a peace builder and as an apostle of reconciliation. It is neither just nor honorable to try to deny these people this moment of joy that would be a source of blessing for our country, the DRC,” said the statement made by the country’s Bishops Conference.
Francis will visit the DRC on July 2-5. The trip’s theme is “All Reconciled in Jesus Christ.” The pontiff will then travel to South Sudan before leaving for Rome on 7 July.