CENCO’s Secretary General stated that the Catholic Church is willing to join an interfaith prayer on February 9 for the FARDC and victims of violence in the eastern DRC. Emphasizing the need for broader compassion, they pledge to pray for both soldiers and civilians affected by conflict. The Church will ensure that any collections adhere to its canonical guidelines for charitable acts.
On January 21, Msgr. Donatien Nshole, Secretary General of CENCO, expressed the Catholic Church’s openness to participate in an interfaith prayer initiative proposed by Minister of Justice Constant Mutamba. The event, scheduled for February 9, is intended to pray for the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) amidst ongoing conflict in the eastern regions. The Church affirms its mission to facilitate prayer for peace, encompassing both the military and displaced individuals. Msgr. Nshole emphasized the need for compassion towards all affected, stating that prayers should extend to those suffering from violence. Furthermore, he reiterated that any offerings collected would adhere to Canon Law, ensuring they support the greater humanitarian needs of the community.
The Congolese National Episcopal Conference (CENCO) has been active in addressing the profound humanitarian crises resulting from ongoing violence in the eastern DRC, where numerous armed groups operate. The proposal from Minister Constant Mutamba aims to unify religious communities in prayer for peace and support for the military. CENCO’s involvement highlights the Church’s role in promoting reconciliation and aiding those displaced by conflict, while also advocating for a broader prayer that encompasses all victims of violence.
In summary, the Catholic Church, represented by CENCO, welcomes the opportunity to engage in interfaith prayers for peace in the DRC. While addressing the needs of the armed forces, it also emphasizes the importance of including all victims of the ongoing conflicts in prayers. This initiative reflects a commitment to fostering unity and compassion through faith, adhering to the Church’s foundational teachings about extended humanitarian support for suffering communities.
Original Source: www.fides.org
