Pope mourns victims of DRC church attack

Pope Leo XIV mourns lives lost in the DRC church attack while urging reconciliation.

Pope laments church attack in DRC and calls for peace

Following a deadly attack on a Catholic church in Komanda, Democratic Republic of Congo, Pope Leo XIV expressed his sorrow. Nearly 40 people were killed when militants from the Allied Democratic Forces opened fire on worshippers during a vigil. The Pope's message emphasized the need for peace and reconciliation in the region, stating that the blood of the victims should become a seed of hope for the Congolese people. In a telegram to the Congolese Bishops’ Conference, he highlighted the urgency of addressing the needs of the affected communities and imparted his blessings on the mourning families and the nation.

This tragic incident highlights the ongoing violence in eastern Congo, where the Allied Democratic Forces, a group with roots in Uganda, has intensified attacks on civilians. The Pope's call for peace is not only a spiritual response but also an acknowledgment of the deep-seated struggles in the region. As international attention shifts to the plight of the Congolese people, the Pope's statements may inspire further dialogue and action toward reconciliation and rebuilding efforts in these turbulent areas.

Highlights

Moving forward, the message of peace must resonate beyond the church walls into the community.