Catholic Bishops Stand in Solidarity with Goma Amid Conflict
Catholic Bishops from Burundi, DRC, and Rwanda express solidarity with Goma amidst escalating violence. They condemn the humanitarian crisis, urging political leaders to promote peace and dignity. The bishops call for immediate international aid while denouncing misinformation and violence, emphasizing unity and support for those affected.
The Catholic Bishops from Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), and Rwanda have expressed their deep solidarity with the people of Goma amid escalating violence. In a statement from the Association des Conférences Episcopales de l’Afrique Centrale (ACEAC), led by DRC Bishop José Moko, the bishops condemned the conflict’s devastating impact on the local populace, highlighting the loss of life and increasing humanitarian crises.
The bishops lamented the humanitarian toll in Goma, exacerbated by violence as the region faces renewed armed confrontations. Bishop Moko underscored the need for swift action to mitigate the conflict’s effects and preserve human dignity. He shared condolences for families affected by the violence, both military and civilian, emphasizing the shared pain of loss in the community.
In their plea for solutions, the bishops called for urgent engagement from local, regional, and international leaders to prioritize peace. They particularly urged political leaders to promote dignity and uphold the rights of individuals within the region. Additionally, they called upon younger generations to reject division in favor of unity, healing the social fabric of the Great Lakes region.
Amid reports of dire conditions, including bombings of hospitals and shortages of essential supplies, ACEAC urged the international community to accelerate humanitarian aid to those in need. Bishop Moko stressed the importance of solidarity among organizations and individuals willing to support the wounded and afflicted by the conflict, providing immediate assistance during this crisis.
Lastly, the bishops addressed the creators of violence and misinformation, urging them to cease their actions that fuel chaos. They encouraged Christian communities to care for the displaced and victims, enhancing solidarity and compassion within Goma and surrounding areas. The ACEAC concluded by entrusting the people of Goma and the Great Lakes region to the protection of the Blessed Virgin Mary, fostering hope for peace.
The humanitarian situation in Goma, DRC, has been aggravated by renewed armed conflict, leading to significant population displacement and loss of life. The Catholic Bishops of the ACEAC have responded to these crises by vocally denouncing the violence and declaring their support for those adversely affected. Their statements call for immediate action to restore peace, emphasize dignity and rights, and mobilize the support of local and international communities. The ACEAC Bishops are part of a broader dialogue aimed at addressing the historical and ongoing challenges faced by the region. They leverage their influence to advocate for peace and humanitarian support amidst the recurring violence that has plagued the Great Lakes region for decades, particularly in the wake of multiple humanitarian emergencies in Goma.
The Catholic Bishops from Burundi, the DRC, and Rwanda have united to denounce the violence affecting Goma, emphasizing the urgent need for peace and humanitarian assistance. Their heartfelt message calls for collaboration among leaders and the community to foster human dignity and alleviate the pain of loss suffered by many. With a plea for solidarity and action against misinformation, they reaffirm their commitment to supporting the vulnerable in Goma, entrusting them to the care of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Original Source: www.vaticannews.va
