The Catholic Bishops of Burundi, DRC, and Rwanda have condemned the recent violence in Goma and urged for immediate action to prevent further conflict. Their statement emphasizes solidarity with victims and calls for dialogue, respect for human rights, and humanitarian aid. They also highlighted the negative impact of fake news and encouraged community support for displaced individuals.
The Catholic Bishops of Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Rwanda have expressed solidarity with the people of Goma in light of recent violence. They condemned the violence and called for urgent measures to prevent further escalation of the conflict. The statement was released by ACEAC President and DRC Bishop of Idiofa, José Moko, highlighting the heavy toll of loss and trauma on the local population as armed confrontations intensify.
Bishop Moko noted the resurgence of violence in Goma coincides with the Catholic celebration of the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple on February 2, 2025. He lamented the considerable loss of life, widespread injuries, and the ongoing displacement affecting countless individuals in the area, reflecting a troubling history of conflict in the Great Lakes region. The ACEAC Bishops expressed empathy for the families mourning their loved ones due to the ongoing strife.
The Bishops called for immediate dialogue and peace efforts involving political leaders from the region and the international community. They emphasized the necessity of prioritizing human dignity and respecting the rights of individuals caught in the conflict. Additionally, they encouraged youth in the sub-region to unite against division and hatred, which only exacerbate the cycle of violence.
Amid reports of hospital bombings, shortages of essential supplies, and looting driven by desperation, the Bishops urged for swift humanitarian aid to support the injured. Bishop Moko advocated for global solidarity to alleviate the devastation caused by war, affirming the moral duty to care for the wounded and displaced, and calling for cooperation among various organizations and goodwill individuals.
Moreover, ACEAC issued a direct appeal to those fueling the conflict, including arms dealers and purveyors of misinformation. They urged these entities to cease exacerbating the chaos in Goma and called for Christian communities to actively support victims of the violence. The Bishops remain hopeful for peace in Goma and the surrounding Great Lakes region, entrusting the situation to the care of the Blessed Virgin Mary and praying for continued hope for the people suffering in the affected areas.
The Catholic Bishops of Central Africa formed ACEAC, representing Burundi, the DRC, and Rwanda, in response to escalating conflict in Goma, a city in the DRC. Over the years, Goma has experienced recurrent violence that has led to destabilization, loss of life, and humanitarian crises. The Bishops aim to publicly advocate for peace, dialogue, and humanitarian assistance to those impacted by the turmoil in their region. Their message highlights the critical need for political accountability and community solidarity in overcoming barriers to peace.
The solidarity expressed by the Catholic Bishops of Central Africa underscores the gravity of the situation in Goma, emphasizing the urgent need for peace efforts and humanitarian aid. By calling for unity among political leaders and communities, they aim to break the cycle of violence and address the needs of the vulnerable. Their commitment to supporting the victims of conflict and promoting human dignity remains essential in the search for lasting peace in the region.
Original Source: www.vaticannews.va
